At least 16 people have died as powerful storms have hit the central and eastern United States, according to officials. The National Weather Service has warned of major flooding in the coming days.
A series of severe storms from Arkansas to Ohio have damaged buildings, flooded roads and railways, and caused dozens of tornadoes in recent days.
Tennessee has been hit hardest by the extreme weather, with authorities reporting ten deaths in the western part of the state on Saturday.
Two people have died due to flooding in Kentucky, according to Governor Andy Beshear. Among the victims was a child.
Photos shared on social media and by local media outlets show significant damage across all the affected states, including destroyed homes, fallen trees, and damaged power lines.
“Major flooding is expected” Sunday in parts of the central and eastern regions, said the National Weather Service, adding that “people and property are at great risk.”
Flooding was reported in Bellville, Ohio, on April 5, 2025.
Two deaths were also recorded in Missouri and one in Indiana due to the storms.
More than 100,000 people were left without electricity in Arkansas and Tennessee by Sunday morning.
Scientists say global warming is affecting climate disruptions, making extreme weather more frequent and severe.
Last year, the U.S. recorded a new high-temperature record, and the country was also hit by a wave of destructive tornadoes and hurricanes.
