Severe weather wreaked havoc across several states in the Midwest, Great Plains, and Appalachia, leaving one person dead along with thousands without power. Northern Oklahoma experienced three suspected tornadoes, while Wisconsin braced for over a foot of snow. In West Virginia, approximately 140,000 customers were without electricity, accounting for about 14% of all tracked customers in the state. A 46-year-old homeless woman in Tulsa tragically lost her life in the storms, prompting authorities to take action in affected areas.
Ohio firefighters heroically rescued two individuals trapped under a bridge by rising waters of the Scioto River. Meanwhile, Mindy Broughton in southern Ohio described a terrifying ordeal as she and her fiancé sought shelter in their mobile home during the storm. The National Weather Service of Charleston, West Virginia, issued a tornado warning for the Mid-Ohio valley, adding to the chaos and destruction caused by the severe weather. Residents in far southwestern Indiana also experienced power outages and school closures due to fallen trees.
Residents in Wisconsin prepared for a spring snowstorm with forecasts predicting heavy snowfall in eastern parts of the state. Meagan Wolfe, the state’s election official, urged voters participating in the presidential primaries to consider casting their ballots earlier in the day to avoid potential travel disruptions. Governor Jim Justice of West Virginia monitored damage across the state, cautioning residents to be vigilant due to power lines, debris, and fallen trees obstructing roadways. Across Kentucky, Governor Andy Beshear declared a state of emergency after severe storms caused significant damage to structures, prompting closure of state office buildings and university cancellations.
The storm also impacted Tennessee, with utility company Memphis Light, Gas, and Water reporting about 40,000 homes and businesses losing power due to lightning strikes at electric substations. New England was bracing for the storm’s arrival, with forecasts of significant snowfall and strong wind gusts prompting warnings of potential power outages. As the storm system continued to move eastward, authorities urged residents to remain vigilant and prepared for the severe weather conditions. The widespread impact of the severe weather system highlighted the importance of safety measures and preparedness during extreme weather events to minimize risks and protect lives and property.
