Powerful storms in Central US leave 9 dead in Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas

Powerful storms wreaked havoc across Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas, leaving at least nine people dead and a trail of destruction in their wake. The deadly weather obliterated homes and destroyed a truck stop where drivers sought shelter during the onslaught.

In Texas, five people lost their lives near the Oklahoma border as a tornado tore through a rural area near a mobile home park. The storms also caused damage in Oklahoma, where guests at an outdoor wedding were injured, and tens of thousands of residents were left without power.

Sheriff Ray Sappington described the devastation as severe, with multiple injuries reported in Denton County, Texas. Three family members were found dead in one home near Valley View.

Arkansas also suffered casualties, with two reported deaths in Olvey and Benton County. Emergency workers were still responding to calls, indicating an active search and rescue operation.

The destruction continued a grim month of severe weather in the central U.S., with tornadoes in Iowa claiming five lives and causing widespread damage. The storms come amidst a historically bad tornado season, exacerbated by climate change.

As the storms moved eastward, bringing rain and more severe weather, the risk of further devastation loomed over states like Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, and Kentucky. The impact of these powerful storms serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable and destructive force of nature.