US: Tornadoes kill at least 32 in southern US states April 12-13 /update 2

Event

Dozens of tornadoes across several southern US states from Sunday, April 12, to the morning (local time) of Monday, April 13, resulted in at least 32 fatalities and caused significant damages to homes and businesses. More than 60 tornadoes were reported from the storms which swept through Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, the Carolinas, and Tennessee. Over one million homes are without power, most significantly in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Arkansas. Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, and Mississippi states declared a state of emergency in response to the storms, which included flash floods and hail. Significant damage was also reported at Monroe Regional Airport (MLU), and all flight operations have been suspended until further notice. Damages have also been reported at Lowcounty Regional Airport in Walterboro.

Residual transportation disruptions, hazardous driving conditions, and power outages are expected over the coming hours and days.

Advice

Individuals in the affected areas are advised to monitor local weather forecasts, anticipate localized flooding and associated transportation disruptions, and take appropriate precautions. The safest place to be in a building in the event of a tornado is in the basement or ground floor, or in an interior hallway or stairwell. Avoid doors, windows, and walls. If a tornado is approaching, crouch face down as low as possible to the floor and cover your head with your hands, or a mattress if possible, to protect your head from falling debris.