Weekend megastorm wreaks havoc across Midwest
A dynamic storm that prompted foreboding predictions of dangerous weekend weather spawned tornadoes, dust storms and wildfires that killed at least 39 people and destroyed hundreds of homes and businesses.
The weekend’s low pressure system whipped up winds that drove fires in Oklahoma and Texas and cranked out deadly tornadoes in Alabama, Arkansas, Missouri, Kansas and Mississippi.
The National Weather Service (NWS) confirmed EF4 and EF3 tornados struck north central Arkansas. An assessment team rated a storm one mile northeast of the Larkin community as an EF-4 with winds of 170 miles per hour. An assessment team rated a storm near Fifty-Six, as an EF3. Major damage was seen in Cave City from an EF-3 tornado that went through the center of town destroying multiple businesses and homes. Three people in Arkansas lost their lives in the storms and over 29 were injured. Survey teams from the North Little Rock office visited ravaged communities Sunday to assess damage and released their preliminary findings.
Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders has declared a state of emergency, stating that “the destruction is unlike anything we have seen in recent years.” Trump announced the National Guard has been deployed to hard struck areas and pledged help to state and local officials.
Across state line in Missouri an EF-3 struck in Bakersfield causing widespread damages and taking the lives of three people. The weather service reported at least five tornadoes in Missouri, including one in the Saint Louis area. In total, Missouri had 12 fatalities spanning five counties.
DMA radar confirmed six tornadoes touched down in the Ozarks area; three in Missouri and three in Arkansas. The storms resulted in multiple fatalities across seven states with the latest total being at 40 but may climb higher.
A local business is looking to assist families in Bakersfield and Cave City affected by Friday night’s storms, and they are seeking the public’s help. GTS Physical Therapy Services’ Mountain Home location will serve as a drop-off site for anyone looking to donate.
Supplies needed include hand tools, shovels, contractor bags, tarps, straps and rakes. Other items being sought include cleaning supplies, hygiene products, non-perishable food, Gatorade, diapers and wipes, feminine products, towels and totes, duct tape, pain-relief medication, new clothing, formula, distilled water, new underwear, Pull-ups, baby food, new baby bottles, pet food, flashlights, batteries, portable chargers and monetary donations.
According to GTS, a tornado disaster recovery account has been set up at Bank Of Cave City. Credit card donations are accepted during business hours.
GTS Physical Therapy Services is located at 201 North College Street in Mountain Home.
