Storms Wreak Havoc in Central-Eastern US, Leaving 16 Dead

• 10 fatalities reported in Tennessee.
• NWS warns of significant flash flooding risks ahead.
• Over 100,000 individuals are currently without electricity.

WASHINGTON: Severe storms continue to wreak havoc across the central-eastern United States, resulting in at least 16 deaths, according to officials. The National Weather Service issued a warning on Saturday about impending “severe” flash flooding in the days to come.

A wave of intense storms extending from Arkansas to Ohio has caused extensive property damage, flooded highways, and generated numerous tornadoes in recent days.

Tennessee has experienced the brunt of this extreme weather, with state officials reporting that 10 individuals lost their lives across the western regions on Saturday.

In Kentucky, two people died due to flooding, as mentioned by Governor Andy Beshear, including a child who was “swept away by floodwaters.”

Images shared on social media and local news platforms depict widespread destruction caused by the storm across multiple states, featuring collapsed homes, downed trees, power lines, and overturned vehicles.

The National Weather Service (NWS) stated that “severe, widespread flash flooding is anticipated” through Sunday in various parts of the central-eastern area, emphasizing that “lives and property are at significant risk.”

Local media and authorities reported two storm-related fatalities in Missouri and one in Indiana.

A five-year-old child was discovered deceased in a residence in Little Rock, Arkansas, which was linked to the ongoing severe weather, according to the state’s emergency management agency.

Governor Beshear of Kentucky noted on social media Saturday that flooding has risen to unprecedented levels in numerous communities, urging residents to “avoid travel and never attempt to drive through flooded areas.”

By early Sunday, over 100,000 customers were without electricity in Arkansas and Tennessee, as reported by the tracking site PowerOutage.us.

The NWS warned on Saturday that moderate to severe tornadoes might develop in the Tennessee Valley and Lower Mississippi Valley on Sunday, along with “strong thunderstorms.”

Experts assert that climate change is altering weather patterns and the water cycle, leading to an increase in the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events.

Last year set records for high temperatures in the United States, which also faced a series of tornadoes and destructive hurricanes.