Tornado-spawning storms left at least 28 dead across the central US.
A series of storms in the central U.S. leaves at least 28 dead, with more than 14 fatalities in Kentucky and 7 in Missouri.
The recent tornado-spawning storm system in the central US has left at least 28 people dead in Missouri and Kentucky. The storm continues its path through Texas, Oklahoma, and Kansas.
Fourteen deaths have been reported in Kentucky since the alert was issued last Friday. This area is the most affected by the storm, according to CNN. Meanwhile, the St. Louis area in Missouri has reported at least seven deaths.
The system was first reported on Thursday, affecting communities in Wisconsin and Minnesota. However, these areas were not hit as hard as the central states.
Storm Hits Southeastern Kentucky
Confirmation of at least 14 deaths in this part of the state was given by Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear on social media. He noted that the number could rise throughout the day as more information becomes available.
According to videos and photos, the storm's trail began in Pulaski County and moved east into Laurel County. In this area, first responders arrived to assist in the Sunshine Hills neighborhood, which is covered by downed trees and twisted cars.
Missouri: At Least 7 People Killed by the Storm
The National Weather Service had warned about a tornado tracking through St. Louis. According to the Associated Press, spokesperson Laura High said at least 15 patients were sent to St. Louis Children's Hospital. Barnes-Jewish Hospital received at least 20 injured people.
St. Louis Mayor Cara Spencer told CNN that "a lot of roofs are missing." About 500 first responders are assisting in a 20-square-block area of the city that was damaged by the storm overnight.
What Is the Storm's Path?
According to the National Weather Service, the storm system is expected to impact the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex in Texas through Saturday evening. The state is already under alert, with preparations underway for large hail, damaging winds, and the possibility of tornadoes.
However, through Monday, the main focus of severe weather will shift to the Great Plains. This increases the risk of damaging storms in Oklahoma and Kansas.
