Destructive Tornado Outbreaks Storm Across the United States
As of March 20, 2025, the United States has experienced several major tornado outbreaks, with one destructive wave striking in mid-March. The storms left a trail of destruction and claimed many lives.
March 13–17 Outbreak
Between March 13 and 17, a powerful storm unleashed a series of tornadoes across the Midwest and Southeastern states. The Storm Prediction Center issued a high-risk alert for parts of Mississippi and Alabama, only the third time a warning had been declared for the following day.
Over 100 tornadoes were confirmed during the outbreak, including several classified as EF4, known for causing massive damage. One of the most devastating tornadoes, an EF4, tore through Diaz, Arkansas, leaving the community in rubble. In total, at least 43 people lost their lives across eight states, with Missouri and Arkansas hit hardest.
The storm system didn’t stop at tornadoes. It brought blizzard conditions, powerful winds, and increased wildfire risks. Roughly 72 million people faced wind advisories, with gusts exceeding 45 mph. Heavy snow blanketed areas from Kansas to Wisconsin, causing whiteout conditions and forcing road closures. Meanwhile, in states like Nebraska, Iowa, Missouri, and Arkansas, over 140,000 homes and businesses lost power. Wildfires fueled by dry conditions and strong winds broke out in parts of Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Missouri, causing further destruction.
Impact on Communities
The storms deeply affected local communities. In Winterboro, Alabama, an EF2 tornado damaged Winterboro High School. The school’s gym was destroyed, and a school bus was thrown onto its roof. Thankfully, no one at the school was injured, though one death was reported in the surrounding area.
What is to come?
The threat didn’t end there. Forecasters warned that severe weather would continue in the following days, with millions of Americans bracing for more powerful storms, damaging winds reaching up to 80 mph, and softball-sized hail.
These early-season tornado outbreaks serve as a reminder of the importance of preparation and awareness as the country enters peak tornado season.
