Eighteen (18) individuals lost their lives, and over 42 sustained injuries when a tornado struck the US states of Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas on Sunday, May 26. According to CNN, approximately 10 million people have been impacted by the severe weather, which included storms, hail, and strong winds.
Today, May 27, the US Weather Department has forecasted more tornadoes, hailstorms, and heavy rain for these three states. The tornado caused extensive damage to buildings, power lines, gas lines, and a fuel station.
The White House reports that US President Joe Biden is monitoring the situation closely. Rescue teams have been sent to the affected areas. Illinois, Kentucky, Missouri, and Tennessee are experiencing the most severe damage. Hailstones the size of baseballs are falling in these regions. As a result, over 4 million people are living in fear. Winds in these states are reaching speeds of 136 to 165 kilometers per hour.
Arkansas declares a state of emergency.
Seven individuals lost their lives in Texas on Saturday, May 26, due to severe tornadoes and heavy rainfall. Among the deceased were four children, with ages ranging from two to five years old. Additionally, eight fatalities were reported in Arkansas. Furthermore, between 60 to 80 people are currently trapped inside a gas station and have been advised to remain there until the storm subsides.
Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders of Arkansas has declared a state of emergency. She assured in a statement that rescue teams are prepared to assist those affected. Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg also confirmed that one person died in Kentucky.
On May 26, U.S. officials announced that Oklahoma experienced two deaths and 23 injuries due to the storm. John Ferry, Claremore City Manager, noted that 19 individuals in the city sustained injuries from the tumultuous weather conditions.
“Increase in Tornado Frequency Observed Across America”
As reported by the US National Weather Service, tornadoes can form in various parts of the world, but they are most prevalent in the United States. Within the US, these tornadoes primarily strike flat regions such as Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reports that tornadoes cause approximately 50 fatalities annually in the US. In 2011, a series of particularly destructive tornadoes occurred, resulting in over 580 deaths between April and June. The estimated financial impact of these events was $21 billion in losses for the country.
