A massive storm system sweeping across the central and southern United States has killed at least 13 people and left a trail of destruction from Missouri to Texas. As the storm moves east, the National Weather Service has issued widespread tornado warnings, with officials warning of a "tornado outbreak" in the Deep South that could bring violent, long-track twisters into the weekend.
Missouri has borne the brunt of the devastation, with at least 10 fatalities reported, according to state officials. In Butler County, one man was killed when a tornado obliterated his home. "It was unrecognizable as a home. Just a debris field," said Butler County Coroner Jim Akers. A woman inside the residence was rescued.
Arkansas officials confirmed three additional deaths, with at least 29 others injured. In Texas, a dust storm led to multiple crashes, including three fatal incidents in the Texas Panhandle, according to the state's Department of Public Safety.
Severe weather conditions have put more than 100 million Americans at risk, with states from the Midwest to the Southeast bracing for further impact. More than 288,000 residents were without power as of Saturday morning, according to poweroutage.us.
The National Weather Service's Storm Prediction Center has placed parts of Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee under a rare "high risk" warning, signifying the potential for a historic tornado outbreak. "Numerous significant tornadoes, some of which should be long-track and potentially violent, are expected on Saturday afternoon and evening," forecasters warned.
Alabama Governor Kay Ivey issued a state of emergency, urging residents to remain vigilant. "The state of Alabama is at risk for potentially dangerous, severe weather throughout this weekend, so it is critical that everyone stays very aware of their local forecasts," she said.
Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe also declared a state of emergency, with widespread reports of storm damage across the state. "I urge all Missourians to stay alert, monitor weather forecasts, and follow official warnings," Kehoe said.
Blizzard warnings remain in effect for parts of Minnesota and the Dakotas, where forecasters predict up to eight inches of snow, combined with wind gusts exceeding 50 mph. "Whiteout conditions are likely," the National Weather Service cautioned, warning of hazardous travel.
Meanwhile, wildfires continue to ravage Oklahoma, Kansas, and Texas, fueled by extreme winds and dry conditions. Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt reported that nearly 300 homes had been damaged and more than 170,000 acres burned.
Forecasters warn that the severe weather threat will continue into Sunday as the storm system pushes east. Major cities including Birmingham, Jackson, and New Orleans remain under severe weather alerts, with the potential for additional tornadoes and flash flooding.
