devastation in US Midwest and South as powerful storm systems leave trail of death and devastation

At least 27 people have lost their lives due to a powerful storm system that swept through parts of the US Midwest and South, leaving thousands more without shelter or homes.

Across the region, hundreds of homes were damaged by the storm, with several states witnessing severe damage. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear confirmed that 18 fatalities occurred in his state, with an additional 10 individuals hospitalised in critical condition.

A strong tornado tore through western Kentucky, causing widespread destruction and leaving many residents without shelter. The tornado was particularly feared for its path across Laurel County in southeastern Kentucky, where 17 of the 18 deaths were reported.

The storm also brought road closures, with over two dozen state roads shut down by emergency services. Experts warn that the death toll could still rise, stressing the need for global support and empathy for the region affected.

"This is a disaster of epic proportions,"said Beshear. "We need the whole world right now to be really good neighbours to this region."

Meanwhile in Missouri, St. Louis Mayor Cara Spencer confirmed five fatalities, 38 injuries, and over 5,000 homes impacted by the storm. The city has put an overnight curfew in place for severely affected neighbourhoods.

The National Weather Service reported that radar data indicated a likely tornado touched down between 2:30 p.m. and 2:50 p.m. in Clayton, a suburb of St. Louis.

Each year, approximately 1,200 tornadoes occur across the United States, with confirmed reports from all 50 states over time. Recent research has shown that deadly tornadoes are now occurring more frequently in the mid-South.

The region, which includes parts of Kentucky, Tennessee and Mississippi, is densely populated and characterised by tree-covered landscapes, making emergency response efforts even more complicated.

The devastation caused by the storm has left many residents struggling to come to terms with the disaster. As one resident put it, "The devastation is truly heartbreaking."

In this time of crisis, experts are urging global support for the region affected, highlighting the importance of a united and compassionate response to this disaster.