Tornadoes rip across the U.S.: Map of destruction and rare weather alert issued
A series of storms of unprecedented scale leaves devastation in its wake, rising a rare high risk of severe weather alert.
A catastrophic storm system has unleashed a barrage of tornadoes, fires, and blizzards across the U.S., leaving a trail of destruction and claiming multiple lives.
As of March 15, over 150 million people across 30 states are under threat from this “historic” weather event, with forecasters warning of life-threatening hazards, including tornadoes, dust storms, and wildfires.
ALSO SEE: St. Louis braces for severe storms: Tornadoes, high winds and hail expected on March 14, 2025
Tornadoes leave communities in ruins
The storm system, fueled by unusually warm Gulf waters, has spawned as many as 70 tornadoes, with Missouri bearing the brunt of the devastation. In Butler County, a tornado tore through the Harmony Hills trailer park, reducing homes to rubble. Tragically, two fatalities were reported in Bakersfield, Missouri, with widespread damage observed in Rolla, Moody, and West Plains.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol confirmed structural damage, downed trees, and power lines across multiple counties. As daylight revealed the full extent of the destruction, rescue teams worked tirelessly to free trapped residents and assess the damage.
Multiple hazards: Fires, dust storms, and blizzards
This storm is not just about tornadoes. Experts warn of additional dangers:
- Wildfires: Dry conditions and powerful gusts exceeding 80 mph have created an extreme fire risk from the southern Rockies to the High Plains. Sparks from power lines or vehicles could ignite uncontrollable blazes.
- Dust storms: High winds are transporting dust across Texas, Oklahoma, and Missouri, reducing visibility and worsening air quality.
- Blizzards: The Dakotas and Minnesota are facing heavy snow and blizzard conditions, with Fargo, North Dakota, experiencing a dramatic temperature drop from the mid-60s to freezing blizzards within hours.
The Storm’s ongoing threat raises a high risk of severe weather
Meteorologists predict the severe weather will persist into Saturday, with stronger thunderstorms and more tornadoes likely. Bernie Rayno emphasized the danger: “This is a downright dangerous situation with the threat of strong tornadoes and damaging wind gusts lasting well into the night.”
Residents in affected areas are urged to stay alert, avoid travel, and heed emergency warnings. With power outages, blocked roads, and ongoing hazards, recovery efforts will be challenging.