Strong storms swept through the central and eastern US on Wednesday, resulting in at least two fatalities and causing widespread damage. The National Weather Service reported multiple tornadoes in Tennessee, with one particularly destructive tornado hitting communities south of Nashville.
In Maury County, a tornado emergency was declared, and a confirmed large and destructive tornado struck near the city of Spring Hill. Tragically, one person was killed and four others were injured in Maury County, with significant damage to buildings and trees reported.
Flash flooding also posed a serious threat, with a flash flood emergency issued for Robertson and Sumner Counties in Middle Tennessee. Water rescues were underway as heavy rainfall continued to pound the region, with radar estimates showing 4 to 7 inches of rain already fallen.
Earlier in the day, Claiborne County reported the first fatality from the storms when a person's car was struck by a falling tree. The dangerous storms, which included damaging winds, large hail, and tornado warnings, have affected multiple states since Wednesday morning.
The National Weather Service issued a tornado watch for parts of Arkansas, Mississippi, Missouri, and Tennessee until 3 a.m. CT, indicating the possibility of severe thunderstorms and tornadoes in the watch area. Tornado warnings were also issued in northern Alabama, Southern Tennessee, and north Georgia.
The ongoing severe weather comes on the heels of powerful tornadoes that tore through southwestern Michigan, causing destruction and injuries. Authorities are urging residents to stay off the roads and take necessary precautions to stay safe during these hazardous conditions.
