Tornados sweep central US, leaving eight dead and dozens injured

WASHINGTON: A series of powerful tornados struck the central United States, resulting in the deaths of eight people and injuring at least a dozen others, according to authorities. The storms, which began on Friday and continued into Saturday, caused significant damage across several states.

Fatalities reported in Oklahoma and Michigan

Officials confirmed that four people lost their lives in Oklahoma as the tornados intensified in the region. Further north, in Michigan, four additional fatalities were reported. The Branch County Sheriff’s Office stated that a tornado touched down near Union City in southern Michigan on Friday, killing three individuals and injuring 12 others.

Approximately 50 miles (80 kilometres) to the west, Cass County officials reported one death and several injuries after a tornado impacted the area. The local authorities noted that numerous trees had been uprooted, falling onto roads and buildings and causing further destruction.

“Our thoughts are with those who have lost family, friends, and property during this incident,” the Branch County Sheriff’s Office said in a statement.

Widespread damage and emergency response

In addition to the fatalities and injuries, the storms left a trail of destruction, with vehicles such as a Chevy Trailblazer SUV reportedly crushed by falling trees in Michigan. Emergency services responded to multiple incidents involving downed trees and damaged infrastructure.

Authorities in the affected areas are continuing recovery and relief efforts as they assess the full extent of the damage caused by the severe weather.