A series of strong storms that hit Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas over the weekend caused significant damage. The storms claimed the lives of 18 people, including two children, and injured hundreds more. Because of the damage to homes and companies, tens of thousands of people lost power.
Texas had the worst weather. In Cooke County, which is close to the border with Oklahoma, a tornado tore through the area. In that one area alone, the tornado claimed seven lives and damaged over 200 homes. Governor Greg Abbott declared a state of disaster for the counties.
The storms also caused a lot of damage in Oklahoma and Arkansas. Two people died in Oklahoma, and at least eight died in Arkansas because of the weather. Many individuals reported the destruction of their homes and businesses, along with the downfall of trees and power lines.
The storms happen at a time when the central US is already having a hard time with bad weather. In Iowa last week, tornadoes killed at least five people and hurt dozens more. Climate change is becoming a bigger problem because it's making extreme weather more common, like this new round of bad weather.
- Impact by State:
- Texas: 7 dead, 100 injured, and over 200 homes destroyed. The worst-hit areas include Cooke County and Valley View.
- Oklahoma: Two fatalities, numerous injuries, and extensive damage in Claremore.
- Arkansas: At least 8 dead, including a 26-year-old woman in Olvey. Benton County confirmed three deaths.
- Kentucky: One dead.
- Cause of the Storms: The string of tornadoes over the past two months is due to a combination of warm, moist air and a persistent weather pattern.
- Power Outages: More than 470,000 people were without power across several states, including Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Tennessee, and Kentucky.
- Dangerous Travel Conditions: Roads were impassable in some areas due to downed trees and power lines. We urged travellers to be aware of the weather conditions and have a plan in case of severe weather.
- Climate Change Connection: Meteorologists point out that climate change is a contributing factor to the severity of these storms.
- Recovery Efforts: Search and rescue operations are underway in all affected areas. Officials are working to restore power and assess the damage.
Upcoming Days:
- The storm system will likely move east over the Memorial Day weekend, putting Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, North Carolina, and Virginia at risk of severe weather.
- People living in these places should keep up with the latest weather warnings and forecasts and be ready to find shelter if they need to.
The terrible weather this weekend in Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas showed how strong nature can be. As we work to rebuild after these storms, we need to get ready for the ones that will come again.
Image Source: Multiple Agencies
Inputs from Agencies
© Copyright 2024. All Rights Reserved Powered by Vygr Media.
