Nashville, Tennessee – Southern and central regions of the United States are grappling with the aftermath of tornadoes and severe storms that claimed three lives on Wednesday. Residents from East Texas to South Carolina are now on high alert as they prepare for potentially damaging weather threats, including large hail, strong winds, and flooding.
Over 9 million people in northern and central Georgia, southeastern Tennessee, and western North Carolina are currently under a tornado watch until 1:00 p.m. local time, as confirmed by the Storm Prediction Center. Notable cities in this watch area include Atlanta and Macon in Georgia, and Chattanooga in Tennessee.
Tennessee bore the brunt of the storms on Wednesday, reporting at least four tornadoes and flash flooding incidents prompting water rescues and road closures north of Nashville. Tornado warnings were issued in multiple southern states, with a “large and destructive tornado” spotted in Henagar, Alabama, highlighting the severity of the weather conditions in the region.
The tumultuous weather conditions have led to significant damage across the region – 13 tornadoes have been reported, wind gusts reaching up to 70 mph, and hail as large as grapefruits. The National Weather Service warns of severe thunderstorms and flash flooding from the Ozarks to the Tennessee Valley, with the Southern Plains and Southeast regions expected to experience the brunt of the severe weather on Thursday.
Tragically, the storms have turned deadly, with reports of one fatality in Claiborne County, Tennessee, and another person succumbing to a tornado in Maury County. North Carolina also recorded a casualty in Gaston County when a tree fell on a vehicle. Additionally, multiple injuries have been reported, including patients admitted to the Maury Regional Medical Center in Maury County.
The destructive storms have resulted in widespread damage, especially in Maury County, following a tornado emergency declaration by the National Weather Service. As rescue and cleanup efforts intensify, power outages have affected thousands of residents across several states, with North Carolina and Tennessee bearing the brunt of the disruptions.
Looking ahead, the National Weather Service predicts more severe thunderstorms from Texas to the Southeast on Thursday, emphasizing the elevated risk of large hail and high winds. The forecast includes a level 3 out of 5 enhanced risk of severe thunderstorms in specific areas, hinting at potential flash flooding concerns and the persistence of storm activity in the coming days.
As the US enters the peak tornado season, with May traditionally being the busiest month, authorities urge residents in vulnerable areas to stay vigilant and heed safety precautions amidst the ongoing severe weather challenges.