Severe Storms Ravage U.S. Midwest and South, Leaving 23 Dead
LONDON, Ky. (AP) — A severe storm system has caused at least 23 fatalities in the U.S. Midwest and South, primarily affecting Kentucky, where tornadoes destroyed homes and flipped vehicles. Governor Andy Beshear reported 14 deaths in Kentucky, with local authorities confirming nine fatalities in Laurel County alone. Residents like Chris Cromer experienced the storm firsthand, seeking shelter as a tornado unleashed devastation in their community. "It makes you be thankful to be alive," he reflected amid the destruction.
Efforts to locate survivors continued overnight, with an emergency shelter established at a local high school and donations pouring in to support affected residents. Mayor Randall Weddle of London highlighted the community’s resilience, stating, "Lives have been changed forever here tonight."
In nearby Missouri, severe storms also claimed lives, with five fatalities reported in St. Louis, where over 5,000 homes were impacted. Mayor Cara Spencer described the scene as "truly heartbreaking." A suspected tornado damaged landmarks, including the St. Louis Art Museum, as residents took refuge from the storm.
The National Weather Service anticipates more severe weather, including thunderstorms and potential tornadoes across the southern Plains. With historical patterns indicating an increase in severe tornadoes in densely populated areas, the recent storms mark a deadly chapter in an already tumultuous weather season for the region.
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