At least 14 people have been killed and dozens injured as powerful storms tore through the central United States, leaving widespread destruction in their wake, officials confirmed on Saturday.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported 11 storm-related fatalities and widespread damage, stating that emergency responders were working “tirelessly to assist those in need and assess the damage.”
Severe weather, including tornadoes, thunderstorms, and large hail, battered Missouri, toppling trees and power lines and damaging homes and businesses. Among the casualties, six people lost their lives in Wayne County, three in Ozark County—where multiple injuries were also reported—and one each in Butler and Jefferson counties.
In neighboring Arkansas, officials confirmed three deaths and 29 injuries due to the violent storms.
With further tornadoes forecasted for Louisiana, Arkansas, Mississippi, and Tennessee, authorities have urged residents in the storm’s path to remain on high alert.
