Tornadoes Kill Over Two Dozen, Devastate Central US States

Severe weather, including numerous tornadoes, has ravaged the central and southern United States, causing widespread destruction and claiming over two dozen lives. Kentucky has been among the hardest hit, with a powerful tornado causing extensive damage and at least 19 deaths, primarily in Laurel County, where recovery efforts are focused around a damaged local airport serving as a relief hub. Oklahoma and Nebraska also experienced at least four tornadoes, resulting in blocked roads, downed power lines, and widespread power outages affecting nearly 130,000 customers across multiple states. The storms have brought other hazards such as softball-sized hail and hurricane-force winds, impacting areas from Texas through the Southern Plains and Southeastern states. Indiana has seen an unusually high number of tornadoes this year, with at least 50 reported in the first five months, about five times the average, driven by typical seasonal weather patterns but raising concerns about increased tornado activity. Officials warn that federal aid may take weeks to arrive while communities continue urgent cleanup and recovery efforts amid ongoing severe weather threats.