Washington, March 15 — A massive storm system sweeping across the US killed three people, triggered deadly crashes, overturned semitrucks, and fuels wildfires in several central states.
At least five tornadoes touched down in Missouri, with more severe weather expected in the Mississippi Valley and Deep South into Saturday night, the National Weather Service warned. Winds reaching 80 mph (130 kph) threatened areas from the Canadian border to Texas, impacting over 100 million people.
Three fatalities were reported in the Texas Panhandle due to a dust storm-induced crash, according to Sgt. Cindy Barkley of the Texas Department of Public Safety. “It’s been a nightmare out here,” she said, citing near-zero visibility.
Oklahoma saw nearly 150 fires, with strong winds toppling tractor-trailers, the State Patrol reported. Truck driver Charles Daniel, navigating Interstate 40, described the conditions as terrifying: “I’m not pushing it over 55 mph. I’m scared it will blow over if I do.”
The storm’s impact is expected to extend through the weekend, with a high risk of tornadoes and damaging winds in Mississippi and Alabama. Heavy rain could cause flash flooding along the East Coast by Sunday.
“This system’s size and intensity are what make it unique,” said Bill Bunting of the Storm Prediction Center.
The agency observed five tornadoes Friday evening, including a damaging one near Bakersfield, Missouri. “This is a life-threatening situation. Seek shelter now!” the National Weather Service warned.
The Storm Prediction Center cautioned that fast-moving storms could bring baseball-sized hail and straight-line winds exceeding hurricane force, with gusts reaching 100 mph (160 kph). A tornado watch remained in effect for parts of Missouri, Illinois, and Arkansas until 11 p.m., with risks extending to Iowa, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Mississippi.
