![[FILE] Damaged recreational vehicles after a deadly tornado struck in Mayfield, Kentucky, USA, 11 December 2021. EFE-EPA/ADDISON LEBOUTILLIER](https://i0.wp.com/efe.noticiasdopara.net/wp-content/s/2025/05/rss-efe1af0786ff789ce68fe89e37df651c610da8ecca9w.webp?fit=1920%2C1280&ssl=1)
Washington, May 17 (EFE).– A devastating tornado system triggered by a powerful storm has left at least 21 people dead across central US states, with fatalities reported in Kentucky and Missouri, authorities said on Saturday.
The storm system initially swept through the Midwest and Great Lakes region before moving south, spawning tornadoes in Missouri, Kentucky, Illinois, and Indiana.
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear declared a state of emergency.
“We’re starting today with the tough news that we lost at least 14 of our people to last night’s storms, but sadly, this number is expected to grow as we receive more information. Please pray for all of our affected families,” Beshear wrote on X.
“The devastation from last night’s deadly weather is heartbreaking, but we are going to make sure we get the needed to recover and rebuild together.”
In Missouri, at least seven people were killed after a violent tornado struck the St. Louis area.
“The loss of life and destruction St. Louis has experienced in today’s storm is horrendous, and my thoughts are with everyone whose lives were altered today,” said St. Louis Mayor Cara Spencer.
“Please stay home tonight and allow our first responders to do their work. And please keep St. Louis in your thoughts and prayers.”
The storms knocked down power lines and critical infrastructure, leaving more than 700,000 homes and businesses without electricity across a dozen states, according to tracking site Poweroutage. EFE er-sk
