At least 40 people have lost their lives as devastating tornadoes and dust storms swept through the US Midwest and South. Missouri was hardest hit by the twisters, with at least 12 fatalities reported. The destruction prompted US President Donald Trump to urge citizens to pray for those affected by these severe weather events.
Missouri's chief medical examiner confirmed that four individuals died due to fires or high winds. Governor Mike Kehoe expressed the severity of the situation, describing "the scale of devastation across our state" as staggering.
"The scale of devastation across our state is staggering," stated Governor Mike Kehoe.
In Arkansas, a state of emergency was declared following reports of three deaths and 29 injuries. Similarly, states of emergency were announced in Georgia and Oklahoma. In Mississippi, tornadoes claimed six lives, while Alabama saw three fatalities, including an 82-year-old woman.
In Texas and Kansas, powerful winds whipped up dust storms, leading to deadly vehicle pile-ups. Texas witnessed a collision involving approximately 38 cars, resulting in at least four deaths. Meanwhile, in Kansas, a dust storm caused a crash involving over 55 vehicles, resulting in eight fatalities.
In Oklahoma, nearly 150 wildfires driven by winds reaching up to 83 mph (133 km/h) toppled several articulated lorries. The extreme weather conditions left tens of thousands without power on Monday morning, with more than 57,000 in Pennsylvania and 25,000 in Missouri still struggling without electricity.
President Trump issued a call for prayers for those impacted by the storms.
"Please join Melania and me in praying for everyone impacted by these terrible storms!" urged US President Donald Trump.
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