Big March storm fans Oklahoma wildfires and kills 3 as forecasters fear weekend tornado outbreak
A severe storm system sweeping across the United States on Friday has resulted in devastating consequences, including deadly crashes, damaged buildings, and over 100 wildfires in multiple central states. The extreme weather conditions have prompted evacuation orders in various communities and raised concerns for the safety of millions of residents.
The National Weather Service has issued warnings for a vast area of the country, with forecasts predicting powerful winds reaching up to 80 mph from the Canadian border down to Texas. The storm system has already claimed three lives in Texas due to car crashes caused by a dust storm, leading to near-zero visibility on the roads.
In Oklahoma, nearly 150 fires have been reported, with firefighters working tirelessly to extinguish the flames. The high winds have also toppled several tractor-trailers, creating hazardous conditions for drivers on the highways.
The severe storm threat is expected to continue throughout the weekend, with a high chance of tornadoes and damaging winds in Mississippi and Alabama on Saturday. Forecasters have expressed concerns about potential tornado outbreaks in these areas, as well as in other states such as Louisiana, Georgia, Tennessee, and Florida.
In addition to the tornadoes, wildfires have broken out in the Southern Plains, fueled by dry and gusty conditions. Evacuation orders have been issued for communities in Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri, and New Mexico, with firefighters working to contain the rapidly spreading blazes.
The storm system has caused significant damage to buildings and infrastructure, with reports of tornadoes touching down in Missouri and wildfires threatening homes and businesses in various states. Power outages have affected over 216,000 properties in Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Missouri, further complicating the situation for residents.
As the storm system continues to move across the country, blizzard warnings have been issued for parts of Minnesota and South Dakota, with snow accumulations of up to a foot expected. Travel conditions are expected to be treacherous due to high winds and icy conditions, posing a significant risk to motorists in the affected areas.
Overall, the widespread impact of this severe weather event highlights the importance of preparedness and vigilance in the face of extreme weather conditions. Residents in the affected areas are urged to stay informed of the latest updates and follow safety guidelines to ensure their well-being during this challenging time.
