Rare December tornadoes cause widespread destruction and power outages across the South, leaving at least two dead in Texas and Mississippi

A series of rare December tornadoes swept through the South over the Christmas period, leaving destruction in their wake.

With 40 reported tornadoes across Texas, Mississippi, Alabama, and other southern states, the severe weather has already claimed at least two lives and caused widespread damage.

Dramatic videos show the twisters touching down, demolishing homes, toppling power lines, and bringing travel to a standstill in several areas.

Storm System Moves Through the South with More Threats Ahead

According to meteorologist Frank Pereira from the National Weather Service, the storm system is expected to continue wreaking havoc, with gusty winds, hail, and more tornadoes likely as it moves north toward Georgia and the Carolinas.

Pereira mentioned that while severe weather outbreaks this late in the year are uncommon, they’re not unheard of.

The system is expected to track eastward, eventually moving offshore and reducing the risk of severe weather by Sunday evening.

Severe Thunderstorm Warnings and Tornado Watches Issued Across the South

The National Weather Service has issued severe thunderstorm warnings for areas of the Deep South, with wind gusts of up to 60 mph predicted for parts of South Carolina.

Tornado watches are in effect across eastern Texas, Georgia, the Carolinas, and Virginia, with the Storm Prediction Center raising the tornado risk to level 4.

Meanwhile, power outages have affected nearly 65,000 people in Mississippi, with tens of thousands more impacted in Georgia, Alabama, Louisiana, and Texas.

Widespread Damage and Casualties in Texas and Mississippi

Saturday’s tornadoes caused fatalities in both Texas and Mississippi.

In Texas, one person died in the Liverpool area south of Houston, while four others were injured.

The storm left a trail of destruction in several counties, and officials are working to assess the full extent of the damage.

In Mississippi, a tornado claimed one life in Adams County, and two people were injured in Franklin County.

Multiple tornadoes hit areas around Bude and Brandon, tearing roofs off buildings.

Travel Chaos as Flights Are Delayed and Canceled

As a result of the severe weather, over 15,000 flights have been delayed and hundreds canceled, affecting travelers across the United States.

More than 600 flights were canceled by Sunday morning, stranding passengers and causing long lines at airports.

At Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, the departure board was a sight of frustration for many holiday travelers.

Damage in Texas and Alabama as Crews Begin Damage Assessment

In addition to Mississippi, Texas saw extensive damage, particularly in the Houston area, where multiple tornadoes touched down.

Mobile homes were destroyed in Katy and Porter Heights, and several homes were damaged.

Crews from the National Weather Service are still assessing the damage, but reports suggest that both tornadoes and straight-line winds caused widespread destruction.

In northern Alabama, storm damage was reported in Athens, and damage assessment is ongoing.

Governor Greg Abbott Responds to the Severe Weather Threat

In response to the escalating severe weather threat, Texas Governor Greg Abbott activated state emergency resources earlier this week.

He urged residents and travelers to monitor road conditions, make emergency plans, and follow the guidance of local officials as the storms continued to impact travel and safety throughout the region.

Heavy Rain, High Winds, and Mountain Snow Hit the West

While the South battles with tornadoes, the West faces its own set of challenges.

A series of river-fueled storms have brought heavy rain, high winds, and mountain snow to the Pacific Northwest and Rockies.

These storms have compounded the weather challenges facing the country over the holiday period.

Social Media Footage Captures Twisters in Texas

Social media has been flooded with footage from storm chasers and local residents, with videos capturing dramatic tornadoes as they form across Texas.

One particularly striking video shared by Robert Perry shows a twister passing through his area near Brookshire.

Other users have posted images of extensive damage in Porter Heights, Texas, after a tornado tore through the community.

Impact on Travel Plans Following Ground Stop and Weather Delays

The severe weather and its effects on travel have been felt nationwide.

Earlier this week, a ground stop was issued that affected American Airlines flights, disrupting the travel plans of thousands.

As holiday travelers headed home after Christmas, delays and cancellations continued to cause frustration, particularly at airports in affected areas, including Arlington, Virginia.

This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!

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