A series of rare tornadoes wreaked havoc across the Southern United States from Texas to Alabama over the Christmas period.
Rare severe weather conditions led to at least two fatalities and caused extensive damage and power outages in several states, Mail Online reported.
According to the National Weather Service, meteorologist Frank Pereira predicted that the tumultuous weather would persist, with tornadoes possibly moving north toward Georgia and the Carolinas on Sunday.
Severe storms left about 65,000 customers without electricity in Mississippi, and several more experienced outages in neighboring states such as Georgia, Alabama, Louisiana, and Texas.
The storms also heavily impacted transportation, causing over 15,000 flight delays and 612 cancellations, affecting both national and international flights out of the U.S.
Initial reports suggested that up to 40 tornadoes might have touched down from Texas to Alabama. However, damage assessment teams were still confirming these figures.
The forecast predicted strong winds of up to 60 mph for the Spartanburg, SC area, heightening risks to trees and power infrastructure.
These powerful gusts caused fatalities in the Liverpool area, south of Houston, Texas, and Adam’s County, Mississippi. Additionally, several injuries occurred in Franklin County, Mississippi, and near Liverpool, Texas.
Damage caused by the tornadoes and straight-line winds was evident, with significant reports coming from Katy and Porter Heights in Texas, and parts of northern Alabama.
In response to the ongoing threat, Texas Governor Greg Abbott activated state emergency resources to aid affected areas and support recovery efforts.
The National Weather Service was also prepared to conduct extensive damage assessments, starting in northern Alabama on Sunday to gauge the full impact of the severe weather outbreak.
National Weather Service meteorologist Frank Pereira commented on the unusual nature of the event. He emphasized the rarity of such severe weather outbreaks happening so late in the year:
It's not unheard of but it is fairly uncommon to have a severe weather outbreak of this magnitude this late in the year.
Governor Abbott underscored the importance of vigilance and preparedness during these unexpected weather conditions. He advised both Texans and visitors to stay informed about road conditions, create emergency plans, and follow official guidance.
Despite the ongoing response, authorities and meteorologists continued to monitor the situation closely, anticipating possible additional severe weather phenomena as the storm system moved further north.
Communities remained on high alert, with emergency services working tirelessly to restore power and provide aid to those affected by the storms.
In summary, the Christmas period saw a series of unexpected and severe tornadoes sweep across the South, causing casualties, extensive property damage, and significant disruptions to daily life. Emergency management teams in the affected states led efforts to assess and repair the damage as the region braced for more potential challenges from Mother Nature.
