Destructive Storms Claim Lives and Cause Widespread Damage Across Central and Southern US

A series of destructive storms and tornadoes over the Memorial Day weekend has resulted in at least 23 deaths across four states in the central and southern US, with severe weather warnings ongoing. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear reported five deaths, including a man who died from a heart attack while clearing storm debris. Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas also reported fatalities, with eight deaths confirmed in Arkansas. The storms have caused extensive damage to homes and businesses, power outages for over 400,000 residents, and significant travel disruptions, including at JFK International Airport. Texas experienced record-high temperatures, while severe weather, including large hail and damaging winds, continues to threaten parts of the country. President Joe Biden has expressed condolences and assured federal support for affected states.