Devastating Tornadoes Strike Central U.S. on Memorial Day Weekend

The central United States was hit by severe storms and suspected tornadoes overnight, leading to the deaths of at least 13 people, including four children. These storms caused widespread power outages and forced residents to seek shelter as they swept across the region over Memorial Day weekend.

Extensive Storm Threat

The Storm Prediction Center has issued warnings affecting over 110 million people across broad areas of the country. These warnings highlight the threat of large hail, damaging winds, and potentially violent tornadoes, particularly in the mid-Mississippi, Ohio, and Tennessee River valleys. As the storms move eastward, the risk remains high, with predictions of "violent tornadoes, extreme hail, and corridors of widespread wind damage."

Impact on Memorial Day Events

The severe weather also impacted major events, including the 108th running of the Indianapolis 500. The start of the race was delayed, and fans were evacuated from the grandstands due to the extreme weather conditions. President Joe Biden has been briefed on the situation.

Tragic Losses in Texas and Arkansas

In Cook County, Texas, seven people, including four children aged 2 and 5, lost their lives when the storms hit on Saturday night, according to Sheriff Ray Sappington. Arkansas has reported four fatalities due to the severe weather. Marion County experienced at least two storm-related deaths early Sunday morning, confirmed by Sheriff Gregg Alexander. Additionally, the Baxter County Sheriff’s Office reported one death, and another fatality was noted in Benton County.

Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders declared a state of emergency on Sunday to aid the affected areas. She assured residents, "We remain in close contact with local officials and will continue to do everything possible to help each Arkansan in need," via a message on X (formerly Twitter).

Severe Damage and Injuries in Oklahoma

Northeast Oklahoma faced significant devastation, with two fatalities and at least 23 injuries reported overnight. Claremore City Manager John Feary stated that the city suffered major damage, including downed electrical substations and gas systems. Nineteen injured individuals were hospitalized, with three in potentially critical condition.

The National Weather Service confirmed that a tornado of at least EF2 strength, with winds between 111 to 135 mph, struck Claremore, causing extensive damage.

Emergency Responses in Texas

In northeast Texas, a Shell gas station became a temporary refuge for 60 to 80 people trapped until the storm passed. While multiple injuries were reported, none were life-threatening. Severe damage to vehicles left around 40 people stranded, who were later transported to another gas station in Gainesville for pickup by family members.

In north Denton County, Texas, a possible tornado caused injuries, damaged homes, overturned 18-wheelers, downed trees, and knocked out power lines on Saturday night. Emergency responders attended to multiple locations, including homes and RV trailer parks, where "multiple victims" were reported. The City of Denton dispatched medics and other resources to the affected areas.

The neighboring city of Celina also experienced damage from suspected tornado activity. The National Weather Service in Fort Worth issued several tornado warnings for North Texas cities late Saturday night, urging residents to seek shelter as a tornado moved east between Valley View and Sanger around 10:40 p.m. Lake Ray Roberts Marina in Sanger reported severe damage to boats, boat houses, and the fuel dock. Despite rescues from overturned RVs, no serious injuries were reported.

Arkansas and Oklahoma Cleanup Efforts

In Bentonville, Arkansas, crews are working to restore power and respond to emergency medical calls. Mayor Stephanie Orman reported that about 10,000 people were without power and urged residents to stay off the roads due to downed power lines and trees. Over 20 emergency medical service calls were being addressed.

Rogers County, Oklahoma, also reported significant damage from a possible tornado, which downed power lines and trees and damaged homes. Claremore officials indicated that power outages would persist for an extended period due to the extensive damage.