Overview

• At least 23 people have died as torrential rains and tornadoes swept through the central and southern U.S., with fatalities reported in Kentucky, Tennessee, Missouri, and other states.
• Record-breaking rainfall, exceeding 15 inches in some areas, has led to near-record river crests, prompting widespread evacuations and infrastructure damage.
• Critical infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and utility systems, remains underwater or heavily damaged, with over 500 roads closed in Kentucky alone.
• Emergency crews continue rescue operations as freezing temperatures threaten to worsen conditions for displaced residents and delay cleanup efforts.
• Floodwaters are expected to persist for weeks as major rivers like the Ohio and Mississippi gradually recede, prolonging disruptions to communities and agriculture.