Deadly storms leave path of destruction in Alabama

At least two people lost their lives in Alabama as severe weather swept through the state, with Governor Kay Ivey reporting damage across "52 of our 67 counties." Calera, Alabama residents faced widespread destruction, including downed trees and torn-off roofs.

The powerful storm system that battered the South and Midwest moved eastward, leaving nearly 300,000 consumers without power by mid-afternoon, according to PowerOutage website. Missouri reported the highest death toll with 12 fatalities across five counties, as confirmed by the state's highway patrol on social media.

When tallying the full impact in Alabama, at least three deaths have been confirmed. In Plantersville, two individuals perished, including a man who was sheltering with his wife in their workshop when a tornado struck. Another fatality was reported in Winterboro, bringing the state's total to three.

The destruction was extensive, affecting more than three-quarters of Alabama's counties. Emergency management officials have initiated damage assessments and recovery operations throughout the affected areas. Governor Ivey expressed her condolences, stating, "We pray for those lives we lost, as well as those who were injured."

This weather system caused devastation beyond Alabama's borders. Neighboring Mississippi reported six deaths, while Missouri suffered the highest toll with twelve fatalities.

The National Weather Service had issued warnings before the storms hit, but the rapid development and intensity of multiple tornadoes caught many communities unprepared. This widespread disaster highlights the continuing challenges in emergency preparedness and response strategies, especially as severe weather events become more frequent and intense.

Recovery efforts are now underway as communities begin the difficult process of rebuilding after this devastating storm system.