Deadly Tornadoes and Wildfires Sweep Through U.S. Midwest and South, Leaving 40 Dead

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At least 40 people have died as severe tornadoes and wildfires ravaged parts of the U.S. Midwest and South over the weekend. Missouri was hardest hit, reporting 12 fatalities, while Texas and Kansas experienced destructive dust storms leading to additional deaths and pile-ups involving dozens of vehicles. The intense weather event affected over 100 million residents and resulted in nearly 150 wildfires in Oklahoma alone.

Missouri’s Governor Mike Kehoe described the devastation as "staggering," stating that numerous homes, schools, and businesses have been destroyed or severely damaged. Local officials reported scenes of destruction, with homes reduced to debris fields. In Oklahoma, strong winds of up to 133 km/h fueled wildfires that consumed 69,000 hectares and destroyed approximately 300 structures.

States of emergency have been declared in Arkansas, Georgia, and Oklahoma as flood advisories extend across multiple southern and midwestern states. By Sunday evening, over 320,000 people were without power, with thousands still affected into Monday.

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