LONDON, Ky. (AP) — A tragic series of storm systems swept through parts of the U.S. Midwest and South, resulting in at least 27 fatalities, with Kentucky governor Andy Beshear confirming that 18 of those deaths occurred in his state. Additionally, ten individuals sustained critical injuries. The storms included a particularly devastating tornado that wreaked havoc across Kentucky, damaging homes, tossing vehicles, and leaving many residents homeless.
In Kentucky, 17 of the deceased were reported in Laurel County, while one life was lost in Pulaski County. Fire Department Major Roger Leslie Leatherman, who had dedicated 39 years to public service, tragically died while responding to the severe weather. Governor Beshear indicated that parts of two dozen state roads had been shut down and warned that some might remain closed for several days, stressing the likelihood that the death toll could increase.
Beshear urged the community, stating, “We need the whole world right now to be really good neighbors to this region.” State Emergency Management Director Eric Gibson reported that hundreds of homes suffered significant damage. In the aftermath, Kayla Patterson and her family sought refuge in a bathtub in their basement while the tornado raged outside. They experienced terrifying moments filled with the sounds of destruction.
Fortunately, the Patterson family emerged from their home unharmed, but many properties nearby were devastated. Patterson described a scene of chaos in her neighborhood, which was littered with debris, including piles of lumber, metal sheeting, and scattered personal belongings. As rescuers worked diligently through the night searching for survivors, an emergency shelter was established at a local high school, receiving donations of food and necessities.
Although the National Weather Service had yet to confirm the tornado's impact, meteorologist Philomon Geertson suggested that it was likely, given the storm's trajectory through the rural area and its extension to the London Corbin Airport shortly before midnight. Chris Cromer, a resident, received his first tornado alert on his phone shortly before the storm hit and took swift action. He parked in a relative’s crawlspace, where he felt the violent vibrations of the tornado, which damaged his home while sparing others barely nearby.
The severe weather system in Kentucky followed a similar pattern of destruction that had occurred two months earlier when at least 24 people died in flooding across the state, primarily from vehicles trapped in high water. Past storms also left Kentucky reeling, with a tornado in late 2021 taking 81 lives and significant flooding causing further devastation in 2022.
In Missouri, reports indicate that the harsh weather system has resulted in fatalities as well, with seven deaths confirmed statewide and significant damage in St. Louis. The mayor, Cara Spencer, noted that five people died in St. Louis alone, with another 38 injured and over 5,000 homes affected. A tornado is believed to have touched down around 2:30 p.m. in Clayton, injuring several and destroying parts of the city, including the Centennial Christian Church.
The National Weather Service has warned that severe weather conditions may continue into Sunday, impacting parts of the central and southern Plains, with predictions for large hail, damaging winds, and additional tornadoes. They have urged residents to stay vigilant and prepared for potential watches and warnings.
In light of these events, staffing concerns have resurfaced regarding the National Weather Service, which faced significant cuts under the Trump administration. As of March 2025, offices have reported vacancy rates exceeding 20%, raising concerns about their ability to respond effectively during severe weather incidents.
Overall, the catastrophic storms have not only resulted in a tragic loss of life but have also prompted a massive emergency response and community support efforts across Kentucky and beyond.
