At least 20 dead as tornadoes devastate southern US states

A powerful tornado outbreak struck the US Midwest and Southeast on May 16, 2025, killing at least 20 people, primarily in Missouri and Kentucky, according to authorities.

The storms caused widespread destruction, leveling homes, toppling power lines, and cutting electricity to nearly 200,000 households.

In Missouri, a deadly tornado in the Greater St. Louis area claimed at least five lives, while multiple fatalities were reported in London, Kentucky, after a strong tornado hit the region.

The National Weather Service reported dozens of tornadoes across states like Arkansas, Tennessee, Illinois, and Ohio, with a tornado emergency issued for parts of Illinois.

The storms also brought large hail and damaging winds, exacerbating the devastation.

Rescue efforts continue as communities assess the damage, with some reports suggesting the death toll could rise to 24.

President Donald Trump announced that the National Guard has been deployed to assist affected areas, particularly in Arkansas, where a state of emergency was declared.

Recovery operations are underway, but rural communities face significant challenges due to limited resources and infrastructure damage.