Severe tornado activity has severely impacted the Midwest and South, with states including Mississippi, Alabama, Arkansas, and Missouri bearing the brunt of this devastating weather. The intense storms, characterized by tornadoes and dust storms, have resulted in nearly 9 million people being placed under tornado watches, highlighting the widespread nature of the threat. Moreover, over 82.8 million individuals are under wind advisories, particularly concentrated in the central regions of the United States. The severity of this weather system poses significant risks to lives and property across these states.
To stay informed about the ongoing situation and the latest developments, find out more about the aftermath and updates here.
Current Count of Tornadoes Impacting the Region
The Storm Prediction Center has reported at least 33 tornadoes on Friday and an additional 16 tornadoes on Saturday. These numbers are subject to revision as further assessments and evaluations of the storm’s impact are conducted. This continuous monitoring is crucial for understanding the full extent of the tornado activity and its consequences.
On March 15, both Central Mississippi and Alabama received the highest risk warning, classified as level five within the Storm Prediction Center’s rating system. This level of alert underscores the dangerous conditions prevailing in these areas and indicates the potential for significant destruction and loss.
The aftermath of the tornadoes has led to widespread power outages, affecting nearly 27,000 customers in Tennessee, over 27,000 in Alabama, and more than 10,000 in Mississippi. In addition, over 61,000 utility customers in Missouri and 14,000 in Ohio were also left without power, while nearly 40,000 customers in Michigan faced similar disruptions. This extensive impact on infrastructure highlights the severe consequences of the recent weather events.
Details on the Earthquake Experienced in Mississippi
Amid the chaos of tornadoes, an earthquake was also recorded on Saturday, adding to the severity of the situation in Mississippi. A magnitude 3.0 earthquake struck at 1:49 p.m. on March 15, approximately 6 miles from Magee and about 40 miles southeast of Jackson, the state capital. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, this seismic event further complicated the already critical conditions, impacting local communities already reeling from tornado damage.
Death Toll from the Tornado Outbreak: A Tragic Update
The severe weather outbreak has tragically resulted in at least 37 fatalities across seven states, as confirmed by officials. Missouri has reported the highest number of deaths, with at least 12 individuals losing their lives. In Southern Mississippi alone, six people were killed, and 29 others sustained injuries, according to information shared by Gov. Tate Reeves on social media. This devastating toll emphasizes the urgent need for community support and recovery efforts.
“Please pray for those who lost their lives, those who are missing, and those leading the search efforts, as well as for the injured and their families,” Reeves expressed, highlighting the emotional and physical toll the recent disasters have taken on affected individuals and communities.
Current Trajectory and Future Threats of Tornadoes
As of Sunday, March 16, tornado watches remain in effect for parts of the Carolinas, eastern Georgia, and northern Florida. According to National Weather Service meteorologist Cody Snell, while damaging winds are the primary concern, the possibility of additional tornadoes persists. Residents in these areas are urged to stay vigilant and prepared for severe weather.
The risk of tornadoes and thunderstorms is moving eastward but with a lower severity compared to the previous day. Tornado watches and wind advisories have been issued for regions including Delaware, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, New York, Maryland, Virginia, and Washington. Central Florida is expected to experience winds reaching up to 55 mph until 4 a.m. Monday, further emphasizing the need for ongoing awareness and readiness among residents in the path of these storms.
