Video Captures Tornado Outbreak Aftermath in Central US: Extensive Damage and Fatalities

At least five people, including a four-month-old baby, were killed as dozens of tornadoes caused extensive damage across the central U.S.—more severe storms in the forecast.

A series of storm systems triggered a prolonged severe weather event across multiple states, including Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, Texas, and Oklahoma. Beginning on Thursday, the outbreak unleashed numerous tornadoes, including a deadly EF-4 tornado in Marietta Okla.—the state's first EF-4-rated tornado in nearly eight years.

Total preliminary storm reports from Thursday through Sunday evening:

The storms brought not only tornadoes but also large hail and flash flooding. Some regions recorded up to seven inches of rainfall within a few hours, exacerbating the damage and complicating rescue and recovery efforts. Tens of thousands of homes and businesses were left without power prompting a state of emergency declaration in twelve Oklahoma counties.

Key details:

Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt described the devastation in Sulphur as the worst he had seen during his tenure, noting nearly every downtown business was destroyed. The state's leadership, including Speaker Charles McCall, expressed a resilient stance towards recovery and rebuilding. The aftermath also garnered national attention, with President Biden offering federal support.

On Sunday night, severe weather swept across the southern Plains, notably affecting Texas with a shift towards the lower Mississippi Valley by Monday. Weather & Radar storm chaser, Jonathan Petramala highlighted the severity of the situation with videos of cars navigating flooded streets in Groveton, Texas amid a flash flood emergency.

Additionally, a tornado destroyed a home in Trinity, leaving it in ruins, and caused significant damage to several others, necessitating hospital treatment for two individuals.

Looking ahead, while the immediate threat of tornadoes may have lessened, another round of potentially damaging winds and hail and even a few tornadoes continue this week, including in many of the same areas affected by the weekend outbreak. See the latest forecast details.