Powerful storm triggers flooding, tornado warnings across eastern US

A powerful storm system has swept through the eastern United States, bringing severe flooding, dangerous winds, and tornado threats that have forced evacuations and road closures in multiple states.

At least one person has died as the storm continues to wreak havoc, prompting emergency responses across the region.

Flash flood emergencies and warnings were issued for vast portions of West Virginia, Virginia, Kentucky, Arkansas, and Tennessee as heavy rains overwhelmed waterways and inundated communities. In Virginia alone, more than 400,000 residents faced a significant flood threat that could result in widespread damage.

Meanwhile, severe weather conditions also triggered multiple tornado warnings in Mississippi, West Tennessee, and Southeast Arkansas. A large tornado watch remains in effect across much of Mississippi and Alabama as officials warn of the continued risk of severe storms into the night.

As of Saturday evening, more than 19,000 homes and businesses in Virginia were without power, according to poweroutage.us, with another 16,000 customers affected across Kentucky and Louisiana. Strong winds and relentless rainfall have exacerbated the situation, making travel extremely hazardous.

Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin reported flash flooding in the southwestern part of the state, with rainfall totals reaching 1.5 to 3 inches in some areas. Additional up to 1.5 inches downpours were expected, heightening concerns for residents in flood-prone regions, according to CNN. 

In Kentucky, flooding has reached historic levels in certain areas. Kentucky Route 160 in Knott County was closed due to a landslide, while officials in Perry County ordered evacuations as rising waters threatened homes. The city of Jackson has been a tough hit, with Panbowl Lake overflowing and forcing the evacuation of a nearby nursing home and hospital.

Beyond flooding, the storm has caused extensive damage in other areas. In Tuscumbia, Alabama, strong winds tore roofs off buildings, including a local middle school. The severe weather has left more than half a million people without power across Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Kentucky, Virginia, and West Virginia.

Forecasters expect the storm to weaken by Monday, but residual threats, including damaging winds and lake-effect snow, could persist in its aftermath. Authorities are urging residents in affected areas to remain cautious and heed evacuation orders as the situation continues to develop.