Deadly Storms Leave 39 Dead as Tornadoes, Fires, and Winds Ravage U.S./ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ A massive storm system that began Friday has left at least 39 people dead, causing tornadoes, wildfires, and dust storms across multiple states. The storm has destroyed hundreds of homes and businesses while triggering deadly car crashes. As the system moves eastward, forecasters warn of continued threats, including tornadoes, high winds, and hail from Florida to New Jersey. Recovery efforts are underway, with National Guard troops deployed in the hardest-hit areas.
Severe U.S. Storms: Quick Looks
- Deadly Tornadoes: At least 39 fatalities reported across multiple states.
- Missouri & Mississippi Hardest Hit: Dozens killed as tornadoes flatten homes.
- Fire Danger in Texas & Oklahoma: Over 130 wildfires, with 400+ homes destroyed.
- Deadly Dust Storms: 11 people killed in Kansas and Texas highway crashes.
- Storm Moves East: Threat of tornadoes, high winds, and hail from Florida to New Jersey.
- National Guard Deployed: President Donald Trump pledges federal aid for recovery.
Deadly Storms Kill 39 as Tornadoes, Fires, and Winds Devastate U.S.: Deep Look
A catastrophic storm system that began Friday has left at least 39 people dead and caused widespread destruction as it moves across the United States. The storm, which earned a rare “high risk” designation from meteorologists, has triggered tornadoes, wildfires, and dust storms, leveling neighborhoods and disrupting communities.
As the system weakens, it remains dangerous, shifting eastward into the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic. Forecasters warn of severe thunderstorms, damaging winds, hail, and the possibility of more tornadoes from Florida to New Jersey.
Tornadoes Leave Trail of Devastation
Missouri and Mississippi suffered some of the worst tornado damage, with entire communities reduced to rubble.
In Tylertown, Mississippi, tornadoes snapped trees in half and wiped out entire neighborhoods, killing six people and displacing more than 200 residents, according to Governor Tate Reeves.
One couple, Hailey Hart and Steve Romero, took shelter inside their 1994 Toyota Celica with their three huskies as a tornado demolished their home.
“The car rolled onto its side, the windows shattered, and I just hugged Hailey and prayed,” said Romero. Miraculously, they escaped with only scratches.
In Wayne County, Missouri, Dakota Henderson helped rescue trapped neighbors after a tornado destroyed his aunt’s home. Five bodies were found scattered in the debris. Officials confirmed at least 12 fatalities in Missouri.
Butler County Coroner Jim Akers described the destruction as “just a debris field. The floor was upside down, and we were walking on walls.”
Wildfires Rage in Texas and Oklahoma
While tornadoes wreaked havoc in the Midwest, the Southern Plains battled deadly wildfires, fueled by 70 mph (113 kph) winds.
- Over 130 wildfires were reported across Oklahoma.
- Nearly 400 homes were damaged or destroyed.
- Oklahoma officials confirmed two deaths due to the wildfires.
Oklahoma Fire Chief Terry Essary said the conditions made firefighting nearly impossible.
“Nobody has enough resources to fight fires when the wind is blowing 70 mph. It’s an insurmountable task,” he said.
Dust Storms Cause Deadly Highway Pileups
High winds also triggered massive dust storms, reducing visibility to near zero and leading to deadly car crashes.
- Eight people died in a 50-vehicle pileup on a Kansas highway.
- Three people were killed in a Texas Panhandle crash near Amarillo.
Storm Moves East: More Severe Weather Expected
The weakened but still dangerous storm system is now pushing east, threatening states from Florida to New Jersey.
- Tornado watch: North Carolina and Virginia face potential tornadoes, 70 mph gusts, and hail the size of ping pong balls.
- Heavy rain: New York and New England are expected to see flooding rains.
- High winds: Strong winds could cause additional power outages and travel disruptions.
Rescue and Recovery Efforts Underway
- National Guard troops have been deployed to Arkansas, where officials confirmed three fatalities.
- In Alabama, three people died, including an 82-year-old woman, after multiple tornadoes swept through the state.
- In Troy, Alabama, a recreation center serving as a storm shelter was damaged overnight, forcing officials to relocate evacuees.
Despite the devastation, officials are grateful that more lives weren’t lost.
Troy Parks Department issued a statement:
“We are thankful the Lord provided protection over our community and over 200 guests at the Recreation Center storm shelter on Saturday night.”
The Aftermath: Rebuilding Begins
As the storm moves out, residents are left to pick up the pieces. Emergency crews continue search-and-rescue operations, while volunteers and relief organizations work to provide food, shelter, and medical aid to those affected.
Meteorologists caution that March is a peak month for severe weather, meaning the nation could see more dangerous storms in the coming weeks.
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