A series of powerful tornadoes hit Tennessee between 9 and 10 December 2023, and the natural disaster has left thousands displaced and has caused widespread damage.
Several have died, including a family in Madison and Clarksville, USA, due to tornadoes with varying wind speeds
Tornadoes wreck Tennessee areas
Powerful tornadoes and storms struck Tennessee over days. The impact caused significant destruction and left thousands displaced or without power. Furthermore, the severe weather tragically led to at least six fatalities, including a mother and her toddler
Who died in Tennessee tornadoes?
Tornadoes have claimed the lives of six individuals who were identified by USA Today. The deceased included Joseph Dalton, 37, who heroically shielded his son during the storm. Floridema Gabriel Perez, 31, and her son, Anthony Elmer Mendez, 2, perished when their home was hit. Stephen Kwaah Hayes, 34, a gentle giant, lost his life in the Clarksville tornado, leaving his family homeless.
Donna Allen, 59, visiting from Florida, died alongside the destruction of her son’s home. Arlan Coty, 10, a passionate basketball enthusiast, succumbed to the tornado in Clarksville. Each victim’s loss adds to the profound impact of the disaster.
How much damage have Tennessee tornadoes caused?
The tornadoes shredded hundreds of homes and prompted local states of emergency in the hardest-hit areas. In some locations, schools have been closed, and shelters have been opened for displaced families. The storm left more than 17,000 homes and businesses without power initially. Though the number of those left without electricity has decreased to around 9,000. The tornadoes have left lasting devastating impacts on several communities.
Tennessee authorities deal with tornado aftermath
In response to the Tennessee tornadoes, officials have declared local emergencies, opened shelters, and closed schools, according to CNN. Crews are clearing neighbourhoods, and emergency services offer support. Shelters, food trucks, and mobile showers aid residents. The military collaborates to assist affected families. Estimated recovery costs are $3 million (R57 million) in Nashville’s Davidson County. The response is a multi-agency effort to address immediate needs and plan for recovery.