A wave of severe storms swept through the eastern United States on Monday, resulting in the tragic deaths of at least two individuals, extensive flight cancellations and delays, and widespread power outages affecting over 1.1 million homes and businesses.
The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a tornado watch encompassing the greater Washington, D.C. area, which remained in effect until 9 p.m.
The NWS issued a special statement cautioning of the significant risk of hurricane-force winds causing damage, large hail, and even the potential for strong tornadoes.
These storms stretched across a vast geographical area, prompting tornado watches and warnings across ten states from Tennessee to New York.
According to the National Weather Service, more than 29.5 million people were under a tornado watch as of Monday afternoon.
Tragedy struck in Anderson, South Carolina, where a 15-year-old boy lost his life when a tree toppled onto him as he was exiting a car at his grandparent’s residence during the storm.
The incident was confirmed by the Anderson County Office of the Coroner.
Similarly, in Florence, Alabama, a 28-year-old man was fatally struck by lightning, resulting in his death, as reported by WAAY-TV.
The impact of these severe weather conditions highlights the urgent need for safety precautions and awareness during such events.
