At least a dozen people dead across several states as storms take hold of America’s Heartland

Severe weather has wreaked havoc across the country, with at least 9 people dead in Kentucky, 7 in Missouri, and 2 in Virginia. The Heartland to the East Coast has been hit hard by this expansive outbreak of severe weather, resulting in over 500 reports of severe weather from Texas to New Jersey. As a result, over 600,000 people are now without power from Michigan to Tennessee.

The aftermath of Friday’s severe weather outbreak is still being felt, with remnants of the storms continuing into Saturday morning. So far, 26 tornadoes have been reported in states such as Kentucky, Indiana, Missouri, Illinois, and even New Jersey. The impact of the storms has been devastating, with softball-sized hail reported in Barlow, Kentucky, and near Sullivan, Indiana. Additionally, hail greater than tennis-ball-size has been reported from Texas to Ohio.

The damage caused by the severe weather is widespread, affecting 15 states from Missouri to Michigan and out to New Jersey. Storm damage from hail, winds, and tornadoes has been reported as severe storms track through the East-Central United States from Arkansas to Virginia.

As the severe weather continues, a severe thunderstorm watch is in effect for portions of southeastern Arkansas, north-central Alabama, and central Mississippi until 10 a.m. CT. Another severe thunderstorm watch is in effect for portions of northern South Carolina, west-central North Carolina, and southern Virginia until 12 p.m. ET. Quarter-size hail, downed trees, and roof damage have already been reported, with the storms expected to persist into the late morning on Saturday.

In the Northeast, the highest threat is concentrated over upstate New York, western Massachusetts, most of Vermont, and western New Hampshire. Cities like Burlington, Vermont; Springfield, Massachusetts; and Albany, New York are at risk of damaging winds, large hail, and possibly isolated tornadoes.

For the South-Central Plains, the highest threat is centered over central Texas, including cities like Dallas and Arlington. Other areas of Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Kansas also face a lesser threat, with cities like Oklahoma City, Little Rock, and Wichita at risk.

The impact of this severe weather outbreak is significant, and residents in affected areas are urged to stay informed and take precautions to stay safe.