Tornadoes have caused widespread destruction across Tennessee and Mississippi, with severe storms also affecting Missouri, Arkansas, and Indiana. The intense weather conditions have damaged homes, farms, and infrastructure, with reports of a radio tower collapsing in Indiana.
According to forecasts, Wednesday’s storms mark the beginning of several days of continuous heavy rain, which could lead to “generational” flooding in Arkansas, Missouri, Tennessee, and Mississippi. CNN reports that about 14 million people from Ohio to Mississippi are currently under tornado watches.
Tornadoes Strike Multiple Towns
Tornadoes have been confirmed in Slayden, Mississippi, as well as Grand Junction and Selmer in Tennessee. Social media posts on X (formerly Twitter) captured the devastation, with one user describing a “nightmarish wedge tornado” in Grand Junction that lifted debris over 20,000 feet into the air. Another user warned that the storm in Slayden should be declared a tornado emergency.
Videos from Selmer also showed the impact of the storm, with reports of another wedge tornado forming during what some are calling a “historic outbreak” of tornado activity.
Climate Change and Extreme Weather
Studies suggest that climate change is increasing the likelihood of extreme rainfall. A report by Climate Central found that since 1970, hourly rainfall rates have intensified in nearly 90% of major U.S. cities. AccuWeather also warned that parts of the Central U.S. could receive up to four months’ worth of rain within just five days. This level of rainfall could overwhelm small streams and drainage systems, potentially causing severe flash flooding.
Tornado Watches in Effect
The Storm Prediction Center has announced that tornado watches will remain in place for parts of northern Alabama, eastern Kentucky, northern Mississippi, and central Tennessee until 6 a.m. CT on April 3. Nearly six million people, including residents of Nashville, Tennessee, and Tupelo, Mississippi, are affected by the alert.
As the storms continue, reports indicate that numerous houses have been destroyed, and authorities are urging residents in affected areas to take shelter and stay alert for further weather warnings.
Emergency Response and Safety Measures
Officials and rescue teams are closely monitoring the situation, providing emergency support to impacted communities. Residents in tornado-prone areas are advised to stay updated on weather alerts and seek safe shelter immediately in case of warnings.
Sources By Agencies
