Memorial Day Brings Extended Severe Weather Threat: Here's the Latest Information
As Memorial Day approaches, the looming threat of severe weather persists, posing potential risks across affected areas. Stay informed with the latest updates and crucial information to navigate through this extended period of hazardous conditions safely.
Four states—Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Kentucky—have reported fatalities, with at least 18 casualties, including four children, following suspected tornadoes that swept through the central United States overnight.
Throughout the remainder of the Memorial Day weekend, millions are confronting ongoing severe weather risks.
On Sunday, nearly 109 million individuals residing across extensive regions of the US faced the looming danger of significant hail, destructive winds, and intense tornadoes, primarily within the mid-Mississippi, Ohio, and Tennessee River valleys.
Sunday saw the recording of at least 11 tornado reports, with further severe weather anticipated on Memorial Day.
Here's what to know:
Death toll: Severe weather in Arkansas claimed the lives of at least 8 individuals, while Texas reported 7 fatalities, including a 2-year-old and a 5-year-old. Additionally, 2 deaths occurred in Oklahoma, and 1 in Kentucky.
Power outages: Late Sunday, more than 642,000 customers across 13 states experienced power outages, with Kentucky alone accounting for over 135,000 outages, according to poweroutage.us.
Condolences from President Biden: President Joe Biden extended condolences to those affected by the weekend storms, expressing gratitude to first responders and emergency personnel for their efforts.
Forecast: Over 120 million people face the risk of severe weather on Monday, particularly concentrated along the East Coast, south of New England, where a level 2 out of 5 threat is indicated. A rare tornado watch, categorized as a particularly dangerous situation, was issued for parts of Illinois, Arkansas, Missouri, Tennessee, and western Kentucky until 11 p.m. CDT.
Heat warning: South Texas is under an excessive heat warning until Monday evening. Laredo could experience heat index values exceeding 119 degrees, while Austin and Houston may see values surpassing 113 degrees over the next two days.
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