At least six people were killed and several others injured after an "extremely dangerous"&nbsp;tornado rocked the southern United States on Thursday. Alabama and Georgia declared a state of emergency in light of a severe weather outbreak. The deadly tornado ripped through homes, toppling roofs, and uprooting trees in Selma, Alabama.

People in Selma have been advised to seek shelter and stay off the local roads. There have also been reports of downed power lines all across the area. Urging the residents to call 911 to report damages, The City of Selma said, "We are asking everyone to stay calm and stay in place until further notice."

Selma and its surrounding areas saw some of the worst damage, with National Weather Service (NWS) calling&nbsp;the tornado "large and extremely dangerous.” NWS meteorologist Gerald Satterwhite estimated that&nbsp;the twister lasted on the ground for approximately 80 kilometres and damaged seven counties throughout the state, CNN reported. “It was a pretty significant tornado” with “debris lofted in the air to about 10,000 to 15,000 feet,” Satterwhite said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionnews.com/world/winter-storm-tornadoes-batter-us-thousands-without-electricity-543564" hreflang="en">Winter storm, tornadoes batter US, thousands without electricity</a>

An Autauga County Sheriff's spokeswoman confirmed the number of deceased but didn’t share any other information, Reuters reported.&nbsp;According to Coroner Buster Barber, at least four people died from flying debris during the tornado.

"I am sad to have learned that six Alabamians were lost to the storms that ravaged across our state. My prayers are with their loved ones and communities. We are far too familiar with devastating weather, but our people are resilient. We will get through it and be stronger for it," Alabama Governor Kay Ivey&nbsp;tweeted.

"The best we can tell is about 40 homes have major damage or have been completely destroyed," weather.com quoted Emergency Management Director Ernie Baggett, as saying.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/videos/wion-climate-tracker-tornado-rage-across-us-south-killing-several-543417" hreflang="en">Tornado rage across U.S. South, killing several</a>

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Following the storms, six counties in Alabama, including Autauga County, saw Governor Ivey Kay issue an emergency declaration. Additionally included in the declaration were the counties of Chambers, Coosa, Dallas, Elmore, and Tallapoosa.

"We have already seen parts of the state rattled by this severe weather system, which is why I have issued a state of emergency," Alabama Gov. KayIvey said in a tweet.

Nearly 34 tornadoes hit the US, with 58 counties in California being declared as disaster areas, Governor Gavin Newsom said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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At least six people were killed and several others injured after an "extremely dangerous" tornado rocked the southern United States on Thursday. Alabama and Georgia declared a state of emergency in light of a severe weather outbreak.

At least six people were killed and several others injured after an "extremely dangerous" tornado rocked the southern United States on Thursday. Alabama and Georgia declared a state of emergency in light of a severe weather outbreak. The deadly tornado ripped through homes, toppling roofs, and uprooting trees in Selma, Alabama. People in Selma have been advised to seek shelter and stay off the local roads. There have also been reports of downed power lines all across the area. Urging the residents to call 911 to report damages, The City of Selma said, "We are asking everyone to stay calm and stay in place until further notice." Selma and its surrounding areas saw some of the worst damage, with National Weather Service (NWS) calling the tornado "large and extremely dangerous.” NWS meteorologist Gerald Satterwhite estimated that the twister lasted on the ground for approximately 80 kilometres and damaged seven counties throughout the state, CNN reported. “It was a pretty significant tornado” with “debris lofted in the air to about 10,000 to 15,000 feet,” Satterwhite said. Also Read | Winter storm, tornadoes batter US, thousands without electricity An Autauga County Sheriff's spokeswoman confirmed the number of deceased but didn’t share any other information, Reuters reported. According to Coroner Buster Barber, at least four people died from flying debris during the tornado. "I am sad to have learned that six Alabamians were lost to the storms that ravaged across our state. My prayers are with their loved ones and communities. We are far too familiar with devastating weather, but our people are resilient. We will get through it and be stronger for it," Alabama Governor Kay Ivey tweeted. "The best we can tell is about 40 homes have major damage or have been completely destroyed," weather.com quoted Emergency Management Director Ernie Baggett, as saying. Watch | Tornado rage across U.S. South, killing several Following the storms, six counties in Alabama, including Autauga County, saw Governor Ivey Kay issue an emergency declaration. Additionally included in the declaration were the counties of Chambers, Coosa, Dallas, Elmore, and Tallapoosa. "We have already seen parts of the state rattled by this severe weather system, which is why I have issued a state of emergency," Alabama Gov. KayIvey said in a tweet. Nearly 34 tornadoes hit the US, with 58 counties in California being declared as disaster areas, Governor Gavin Newsom said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

‘Extremely dangerous’ tornado, thunderstorm kill 6 in Alabama, Georgia; state of emergency declared

A tornado swept through a field at Macon County in central Illinois on Tuesday (January 3), as severe storms triggered weather warnings across the region.

US: Tornado swirls past wind farm in central Illinois

A tornado ripped through a rural town in northwest Louisiana - one of a swarm of twisters unleashed during the heavy winter storm system sweeping the United States. Watch further to know more.

WION Climate Tracker | Tornado rage across U.S. South, killing several

A major winter storm slammed the United States on Tuesday. Heavy snow and freezing rain hit the Northern Plains, while thunderstorms and destructive tornadoes pounded the South. The National Weather Service issued tornado warnings across parts of Louisiana, Oklahoma and Texas. Twisters were also spotted near Grapevine, Texas and west of Shreveport, Louisiana.

Several people were injured in Texas and buildings were damaged due to the storms.&nbsp;

A tornado near Grapevine damaged several buildings and led to road accidents in Wise, Parker and Jack counties, the Fort Worth Star-Telegram reported. There were no immediate reports of deaths or injuries.

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“You are in a life-threatening situation. Flying debris may be deadly to those caught without shelter. Mobile homes will be destroyed. Considerable damage to homes, businesses, and vehicles is likely and complete destruction is possible,” the National Weather Service (NWS) said in a warning issued at 3:45 p.m. central time.

Over 70 flights had to be cancelled, while nearly 800 others were delayed due to the storms.&nbsp;

“This storm system will continue to produce numerous, widespread, and impactful weather hazards from the Rockies to the East Coast,” the service said in its forecast.

Classes were cancelled across the Dakotas, Colorado and Nebraska due to blizzard-like conditions. Some spots in the four-state area were expecting two feet (61 cm) of snow and winds of 60 miles per hour (97 kmph) throughout the next two days, the NWS said.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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A major winter storm slammed the United States on Tuesday. Heavy snow and freezing rain hit the Northern Plains, while thunderstorms and destructive tornadoes pounded the South.

A major winter storm slammed the United States on Tuesday. Heavy snow and freezing rain hit the Northern Plains, while thunderstorms and destructive tornadoes pounded the South. The National Weather Service issued tornado warnings across parts of Louisiana, Oklahoma and Texas. Twisters were also spotted near Grapevine, Texas and west of Shreveport, Louisiana. Several people were injured in Texas and buildings were damaged due to the storms. A tornado near Grapevine damaged several buildings and led to road accidents in Wise, Parker and Jack counties, the Fort Worth Star-Telegram reported. There were no immediate reports of deaths or injuries. × “You are in a life-threatening situation. Flying debris may be deadly to those caught without shelter. Mobile homes will be destroyed. Considerable damage to homes, businesses, and vehicles is likely and complete destruction is possible,” the National Weather Service (NWS) said in a warning issued at 3:45 p.m. central time. Over 70 flights had to be cancelled, while nearly 800 others were delayed due to the storms. “This storm system will continue to produce numerous, widespread, and impactful weather hazards from the Rockies to the East Coast,” the service said in its forecast. Classes were cancelled across the Dakotas, Colorado and Nebraska due to blizzard-like conditions. Some spots in the four-state area were expecting two feet (61 cm) of snow and winds of 60 miles per hour (97 kmph) throughout the next two days, the NWS said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Tornadoes, snowstorms and rain pound the US amid freezing winter, several injured

Winter storms have raised havoc in many parts of the United States, while some states saw blanket of heavy snow, fierce tornado have lashed several parts of the country. Watch the video to know more.

US: Tornado horrors in Fort Worth, scores injured | English News | WION

In a pretty rare occurrence a mini tornado hit northern France causing some extensive damage. The tornado hit the village of Bihucourt tearing roofs of buildings, and also littering the streets with debris.

WION Climate Tracker: Tornado creates havoc in Bihucourt, France

Tornadoes are one of nature's most devastating forces capable of causing severe damage to both human life and property. On Sunday, a mini-tornado hit a small village called Bihucourt near the port of Calais in France.&nbsp;

According to local reports, few buildings in the area sustained damages as the tornado made landfall. Videos of the incident have gone viral and show the charcoal-black clouds swirling up in the form of a tornado and generating extremely high wind speeds.&nbsp;

A report by Reuters stated that one person suffered injuries. Meanwhile, netizens remarked that it was one of the most violent tornadoes to have ever hit French soil in years.

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🚨TORNADE confirmée ! Première vidéo du phénomène impactant la commune de Buhicourt dans le Pas-De-Calais. D’importants dégâts sont signalés. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/France?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#France</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/orages?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#orages</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tornade?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tornade</a> 
 
Credit: Robin G. <a href="https://t.co/89wAGa15w2">pic.twitter.com/89wAGa15w2</a>
— Nahel Belgherze (@WxNB_) <a href="https://twitter.com/WxNB_/status/1584236376030990337?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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"The municipality of #Bihucourt (Pas-de-Calais) suffered very significant damage following the passage of the #tornado! This could be the most violent tornado to have hit French soil in several years. #storms #MSGU."

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🚨 La commune de <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bihucourt?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bihucourt</a> (Pas-de-Calais) a subit de très importants dégâts suite au passage de la <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/tornade?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#tornade</a> ! Il pourrait s’agir là de la plus violente tornade à avoir frappé le sol français depuis plusieurs années. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/orages?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#orages</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MSGU?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MSGU</a> <a href="https://t.co/2TF3L1EHXH">pic.twitter.com/2TF3L1EHXH</a>
— Nahel Belgherze (@WxNB_) <a href="https://twitter.com/WxNB_/status/1584239478784217088?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kansas-tornados-trail-of-devastation-videos-show-cars-being-tossed-into-walls-watch-it-here-475326">Read more:&nbsp;Kansas tornado's trail of devastation: Videos show cars being tossed into walls. Watch it here</a>

Much like rest of the Europe, France had sizzled with record-high temperatures in the summer months. Thus, the tornado appearing out-of-the-blue and in a region that is not really known for such freak natural events was a surprise for the residents of&nbsp;Bihucourt.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Tornadoes are one of nature's most devastating forces capable of causing severe damage to both human life and property. On Sunday, a mini-tornado hit a small village called Bihucourt near the port of Calais in France.

Tornadoes are one of nature's most devastating forces capable of causing severe damage to both human life and property. On Sunday, a mini-tornado hit a small village called Bihucourt near the port of Calais in France. According to local reports, few buildings in the area sustained damages as the tornado made landfall. Videos of the incident have gone viral and show the charcoal-black clouds swirling up in the form of a tornado and generating extremely high wind speeds. A report by Reuters stated that one person suffered injuries. Meanwhile, netizens remarked that it was one of the most violent tornadoes to have ever hit French soil in years. 🚨TORNADE confirmée ! Première vidéo du phénomène impactant la commune de Buhicourt dans le Pas-De-Calais. D’importants dégâts sont signalés. #France #orages #Tornade Credit: Robin G. pic.twitter.com/89wAGa15w2 — Nahel Belgherze (@WxNB_) October 23, 2022 × WATCH | WION Climate Tracker: Mini Tornado tears through Bihucourt village near Northern France × "The municipality of #Bihucourt (Pas-de-Calais) suffered very significant damage following the passage of the #tornado! This could be the most violent tornado to have hit French soil in several years. #storms #MSGU." 🚨 La commune de #Bihucourt (Pas-de-Calais) a subit de très importants dégâts suite au passage de la #tornade ! Il pourrait s’agir là de la plus violente tornade à avoir frappé le sol français depuis plusieurs années. #orages #MSGU pic.twitter.com/2TF3L1EHXH — Nahel Belgherze (@WxNB_) October 23, 2022 × Read more: Kansas tornado's trail of devastation: Videos show cars being tossed into walls. Watch it here Much like rest of the Europe, France had sizzled with record-high temperatures in the summer months. Thus, the tornado appearing out-of-the-blue and in a region that is not really known for such freak natural events was a surprise for the residents of Bihucourt. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

WATCH: French village pounded by a freak mini-tornado

Hurricane Ian, which gained the extremely dangerous Category 4 status, is nearing&nbsp;landfall along southwest Florida, with the top winds attaining the speed of 155 mph, just shy of the 'most dangerous' Category 5 status, the regional weather centre said on Wednesday morning.&nbsp;

According to reports, catastrophic winds and rain lashed the state's heavily populated Gulf Coast, with the Naples to Sarasota region at "highest risk" of a devastating storm surge.&nbsp;

“Conditions rapidly deteriorating along the southwest Florida coast,” the National Hurricane Center&nbsp;in Miami said&nbsp;Wednesday morning.&nbsp;

It warned that the hurricane could push as much as 12 feet of ocean water ashore in Florida, and urged people to evacuate the danger zone.&nbsp;

Earlier, US Air Force's hurricane 'hunters' said that Ian intensified over Gulf of Mexico's warm waters after pummeling Cuba&nbsp;on Tuesday and bringing down the country’s electricity grid.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis urged the people living along the coast to immediately rush to safety and stay there.&nbsp;

“This is going to be a nasty, nasty day [or] two days,” DeSantis said, reports Los Angeles Times newspaper. &nbsp;

“Do what you need to do to stay safe. If you are where that storm is approaching, you’re already in hazardous conditions. It’s going to get a lot worse very quickly. So please hunker down,” he said.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, some parts of southern Florida have been feeling the storm’s first effects, with tropical storm-force winds and at least two&nbsp;tornadoes reported in Broward County, including at North Perry Airport, where planes and hangers were damaged. &nbsp;

While Key West witnessed major flooding due to storm surge, along with power outages.&nbsp;

Hurricane Ian with the top speed of 39 mph (63 kph) first reached Florida at 3 am (local times), and the first hurricane-force winds were recorded at 6 am. &nbsp;

According to the hurricane centre in Miami, Hurricane Ian went through a natural cycle when it lost its old eye and formed a new eye, which means that the storm got stronger and larger hours before it was set to make landfall, making it even more of a menace. &nbsp;

Ian went from 120 mph (193 kph) to 155 mph (250 kph) in just three hours, the second round of rapid intensification in the storm's life cycle.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Hurricane Ian, which gained the extremely dangerous Category 4 status, is nearing landfall along southwest Florida, with the top winds attaining the speed of 155 mph, just shy of the 'most dangerous' Category 5 status, the regional weather centre said on Wednesday morning.

Hurricane Ian, which gained the extremely dangerous Category 4 status, is nearing landfall along southwest Florida, with the top winds attaining the speed of 155 mph, just shy of the 'most dangerous' Category 5 status, the regional weather centre said on Wednesday morning. According to reports, catastrophic winds and rain lashed the state's heavily populated Gulf Coast, with the Naples to Sarasota region at "highest risk" of a devastating storm surge. “Conditions rapidly deteriorating along the southwest Florida coast,” the National Hurricane Center in Miami said Wednesday morning. It warned that the hurricane could push as much as 12 feet of ocean water ashore in Florida, and urged people to evacuate the danger zone. Earlier, US Air Force's hurricane 'hunters' said that Ian intensified over Gulf of Mexico's warm waters after pummeling Cuba on Tuesday and bringing down the country’s electricity grid. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis urged the people living along the coast to immediately rush to safety and stay there. “This is going to be a nasty, nasty day [or] two days,” DeSantis said, reports Los Angeles Times newspaper. “Do what you need to do to stay safe. If you are where that storm is approaching, you’re already in hazardous conditions. It’s going to get a lot worse very quickly. So please hunker down,” he said. Meanwhile, some parts of southern Florida have been feeling the storm’s first effects, with tropical storm-force winds and at least two tornadoes reported in Broward County, including at North Perry Airport, where planes and hangers were damaged. While Key West witnessed major flooding due to storm surge, along with power outages. Hurricane Ian with the top speed of 39 mph (63 kph) first reached Florida at 3 am (local times), and the first hurricane-force winds were recorded at 6 am. According to the hurricane centre in Miami, Hurricane Ian went through a natural cycle when it lost its old eye and formed a new eye, which means that the storm got stronger and larger hours before it was set to make landfall, making it even more of a menace. Ian went from 120 mph (193 kph) to 155 mph (250 kph) in just three hours, the second round of rapid intensification in the storm's life cycle. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Hurricane Ian, just shy of 'most dangerous' Category 5 status, nears landfall in Florida 

A rare tornado ripped through the western Dutch city of Zierikzee, leaving one person dead and at least ten injured. The storm tore through the roofs and pulled down trees, leaving a trail of destruction.

Rare tornado leaves one dead in Netherlands

China&nbsp;was hit this week by a rare convergence of record rainfall, heatwaves, and a tornado in the southern megacity of Guangzhou, displacing millions of people, damaging properties and swamping farmland, with more storms and floods on the way.

Southern&nbsp;China&nbsp;is expected to see torrential rain until Tuesday, state media reported on Friday, with no immediate reprieve to the region inundated by downpours in the past week.

At least seven provinces and regions in the south issued alerts for severe storms and floods for the next 24 hours.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/over-800000-residents-in-chinas-jiangxi-affected-by-heavy-rains-floods-485995">Over 800,000 residents in China's Jiangxi affected by heavy rains, floods</a>

Authorities had issued warnings of "extreme weather events" as early as April, ahead of the rainy season that signals the seasonal transition from spring to summer in June.

China&nbsp;is historically prone to floods, triggering landslides and swamping many acres of farmland.

In recent times, the country has grown even more vulnerable, owing to deforestation, the reclamation of wetlands and the storage of water for power generation and irrigation.

China&nbsp;also blames climate change for the increase in extreme weather events.

The aviation regulator on Friday cautioned airlines against flying through extreme weather, with severe convection storms to be expected over the summer.

Watch |&nbsp;Countering China's influence in the Pacific: The US promises a new Pacific initiative

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"Weather conditions in&nbsp;China&nbsp;will tend to be unfavourable this summer," an official at the regulator said at a news briefing on Friday.

Late on Thursday, a tornado ripped through parts of Guangzhou during a heavy rainstorm, local media reported, cutting off power supply to over 5,400 users in the sprawling southern city, capital of Guangdong province.

Media in Guangzhou reported dangerous water levels with high waves in the broader Pearl River Basin, prompting the central government to dispatch flood prevention workers.

Since May, precipitation in the Pearl River Basin - a vast river system encompassing Guangdong and parts of Guangxi, Jiangxi, Hunan, Guizhou and Yunnan - has risen to its highest since 1961, according to state media on Friday, citing&nbsp;China's National Climate Center.

In Fujian province north of the basin, authorities warned that recent record-breaking rainfall would persist into next week, posing a high risk of natural disasters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/big-boost-china-launches-most-advanced-aircraft-carrier-called-fujian-find-out-why-it-is-special-489015">Big boost: China launches 'most advanced' aircraft carrier called Fujian. Find out why it is special</a>

Meanwhile, temperatures in central and northern&nbsp;China&nbsp;are expected to hit unusual highs into next week, surpassing 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit).

The abnormally warm weather has already enveloped the Henan capital of Zhengzhou, which was hit by record rainfall and paralysed by devastating floods last summer.

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China was hit this week by a rare convergence of record rainfall, heatwaves, and a tornado in the southern megacity of Guangzhou, displacing millions of people, damaging properties and swamping farmland, with more storms and floods on the way.

China was hit this week by a rare convergence of record rainfall, heatwaves, and a tornado in the southern megacity of Guangzhou, displacing millions of people, damaging properties and swamping farmland, with more storms and floods on the way. Southern China is expected to see torrential rain until Tuesday, state media reported on Friday, with no immediate reprieve to the region inundated by downpours in the past week. At least seven provinces and regions in the south issued alerts for severe storms and floods for the next 24 hours. Also read | Over 800,000 residents in China's Jiangxi affected by heavy rains, floods Authorities had issued warnings of "extreme weather events" as early as April, ahead of the rainy season that signals the seasonal transition from spring to summer in June. China is historically prone to floods, triggering landslides and swamping many acres of farmland. In recent times, the country has grown even more vulnerable, owing to deforestation, the reclamation of wetlands and the storage of water for power generation and irrigation. China also blames climate change for the increase in extreme weather events. The aviation regulator on Friday cautioned airlines against flying through extreme weather, with severe convection storms to be expected over the summer. Watch | Countering China's influence in the Pacific: The US promises a new Pacific initiative "Weather conditions in China will tend to be unfavourable this summer," an official at the regulator said at a news briefing on Friday. Late on Thursday, a tornado ripped through parts of Guangzhou during a heavy rainstorm, local media reported, cutting off power supply to over 5,400 users in the sprawling southern city, capital of Guangdong province. Media in Guangzhou reported dangerous water levels with high waves in the broader Pearl River Basin, prompting the central government to dispatch flood prevention workers. Since May, precipitation in the Pearl River Basin - a vast river system encompassing Guangdong and parts of Guangxi, Jiangxi, Hunan, Guizhou and Yunnan - has risen to its highest since 1961, according to state media on Friday, citing China's National Climate Center. In Fujian province north of the basin, authorities warned that recent record-breaking rainfall would persist into next week, posing a high risk of natural disasters. Also read | Big boost: China launches 'most advanced' aircraft carrier called Fujian. Find out why it is special Meanwhile, temperatures in central and northern China are expected to hit unusual highs into next week, surpassing 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). The abnormally warm weather has already enveloped the Henan capital of Zhengzhou, which was hit by record rainfall and paralysed by devastating floods last summer. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China hit by rare convergence of rainfall, heatwaves and a tornado

A strong tornado hit the Michigan's Gaylord on Friday in which two died and 44 got injured. Tornado caused fire and a lot of destruction in the city. The National Weather Service rated the tornado an EF3 with maximum winds of 140mph

Tornado cause fire, destruction in Michigan's Gaylord

2 people died and 44 are injured after a powerful tornado struct the Michigan town on Friday. More than 6,000 homes left without power and Governor has declared a state of emergency for the area.

US: Devastating tornado hits Michigan, governor declares state of emergency

Climate change is taking a heavy toll on Europe, with tornado ripping through Germany while Spain endures one of the worst heatwaves in its history.

In Germany, a strong tornado left behind a trail of destruction in several towns in the western part of the country, leaving more than 40 people injured and one dead.

Officers in the western&nbsp;Paderborn city, which has a population of about 150,000, said the winds, which meteorologists warned could reach up to 130kmph (81mph), blew away roofs, toppled trees and sent debris flying for miles.

"Thirty to 40 injured, at least 10 of them seriously," Paderborn police said, according to Sky News.

People have been urged to remain in their houses so that the rescue efforts are not hampered, otherwise they could endanger themselves.

As heavy rain and hail swept across the country, the western German town of Lippstadt was also heavily damaged by a tornado, officials said.

A 38-year-old man also died in severe storms which lashed the region on Friday.

Images on social media showed that in nearby Hellinghausen, a steeple had been ripped off the roof of a church tower, with the rubble scattered in the churchyard.

Whereas contrasting conditions were witnessed in Spain with temperatures of more than 40 degrees Celsius in some places, making May the hottest month.

The state weather agency, AEMET, issued heat warnings in 10 regions for Saturday, saying it could be “one of the most intense” heatwaves in years.

The city of Jaén in southern Spain recorded its highest ever May temperature of 40C on Friday.

Meteorologists say that Spain's unseasonably warm spring weather is due to hot air coming from North Africa, causing temperatures to rise by up to 15C above average for this time of year.

The worst-hit regions are Andalusia in the south, Extremadura in the south-east, Madrid and Castilla La Mancha in the centre and Aragon in the north-east, BBC reported.

Spain's health ministry urged residents to drink plenty of water and to stay in cool places when possible. It also advised people to reduce physical activity.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Climate change is taking a heavy toll on Europe, with tornado ripping through Germany while Spain endures one of the worst heatwaves in its history. In Germany, a strong tornado left behind a trail of destruction in several towns in the western part of the country, leaving more than 40 people injured and one dead.

Climate change is taking a heavy toll on Europe, with tornado ripping through Germany while Spain endures one of the worst heatwaves in its history. In Germany, a strong tornado left behind a trail of destruction in several towns in the western part of the country, leaving more than 40 people injured and one dead. Officers in the western Paderborn city, which has a population of about 150,000, said the winds, which meteorologists warned could reach up to 130kmph (81mph), blew away roofs, toppled trees and sent debris flying for miles. "Thirty to 40 injured, at least 10 of them seriously," Paderborn police said, according to Sky News. People have been urged to remain in their houses so that the rescue efforts are not hampered, otherwise they could endanger themselves. As heavy rain and hail swept across the country, the western German town of Lippstadt was also heavily damaged by a tornado, officials said. A 38-year-old man also died in severe storms which lashed the region on Friday. Images on social media showed that in nearby Hellinghausen, a steeple had been ripped off the roof of a church tower, with the rubble scattered in the churchyard. Whereas contrasting conditions were witnessed in Spain with temperatures of more than 40 degrees Celsius in some places, making May the hottest month. The state weather agency, AEMET, issued heat warnings in 10 regions for Saturday, saying it could be “one of the most intense” heatwaves in years. The city of Jaén in southern Spain recorded its highest ever May temperature of 40C on Friday. Meteorologists say that Spain's unseasonably warm spring weather is due to hot air coming from North Africa, causing temperatures to rise by up to 15C above average for this time of year. The worst-hit regions are Andalusia in the south, Extremadura in the south-east, Madrid and Castilla La Mancha in the centre and Aragon in the north-east, BBC reported. Spain's health ministry urged residents to drink plenty of water and to stay in cool places when possible. It also advised people to reduce physical activity. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Climate change grips Europe: Tornado in Germany, heatwave in Spain

Tornado causes significant damage in west German city

A massive tornado tore through the town of Fort Stockton in Texas. Eyewitnesses recorded footage that showed the destruction caused in the region.

Central US faces severe storms and tornadoes

A powerful Tornado has ripped through the United State's Kansas. No fatalities were reported. However, a few were injured.

US: A Powerful tornado tears through Kansas, no fatalities reported

On Friday (April 29), a large tornado tore through parts of the United States' Kansas, destroying homes and buildings, leaving thousands without electricity.

Videos of the huge tornado are making the rounds on the internet and the shocking video has left users flabbergasted.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ghost-of-kyiv-killed-in-fighting-after-shooting-down-40-russian-jets-475309" hreflang="en">'Ghost of Kyiv' killed in fighting, has shot down 40 Russian jets</a>

Watch it here:

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Highest-res drone footage of the Andover, KS <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/tornado?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#tornado</a> which has received a preliminary rating of EF3. Note how the tornado propagates via vortex dynamics and likely terrain. Incredibly, no lives were lost by this tornado <a href="https://t.co/FJDBH8TAv6">pic.twitter.com/FJDBH8TAv6</a>
— Reed Timmer (@ReedTimmerAccu) <a href="https://twitter.com/ReedTimmerAccu/status/1520542108033159168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 30, 2022</a></blockquote>
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As of now, no fatalities or serious injuries have been reported from the tornado itself, although three college students lost their lives storm chasing.

19-year-old Gavin Short; 20-year-old Nicholas Nair; and 22-year-old Drake Brooks, meteorology students at the University of Oklahoma were killed in a car crash as they were returning from storm chasing.

Watch |&nbsp;Climate Crisis: Iraq's green belt left barren

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As per authorities, more than 1000 buildings were affected when the strong twister swept through Andover, Kansas, leaving behind a trail of destruction far worse than what was estimated.

The YMCA in Andover was severely damaged, as seen in social media videos. Cars can be seen being thrown against walls by the sheer intensity of the storm in these citizen-shot videos.

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Andover KS tornado damage here is the Dr. Jim Farha YMCA a total of twelve vehicles were thrown against the building. Two cars went in the front door. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kswx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kswx</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AndoverTornado?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AndoverTornado</a> <a href="https://t.co/7kphbZOQ4k">pic.twitter.com/7kphbZOQ4k</a>
— Jeff Piotrowski (@Jeff_Piotrowski) <a href="https://twitter.com/Jeff_Piotrowski/status/1520384303221420038?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 30, 2022</a></blockquote>
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However, as per a Facebook post by the Greater Wichita YMCA, none of the staff that took shelter inside the building were&nbsp;injured.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/claims-of-an-ancient-human-in-the-modern-era-shake-the-scientific-community-heres-what-you-need-to-know-475313" hreflang="en">Claims of an ancient human in the modern era shake the scientific community. Here's what you need to know</a>

Deputy fire chief Mike Roosevelt while addressing the press said "We now know that our damage path extended approximately 3.5 to 4 miles (5.6 to 6.4 kilometres) to the North of where we believed it to have ended last night."

According to a Reuters report, the tornado was part of a storm system that has been wreaking havoc in Kansas and Nebraska, two states that are part of "tornado alley," a region of the United States known for its high frequency of tornadoes.

(With inputs from agencies)

On Friday (April 29), a large tornado tore through parts of the United States' Kansas, destroying homes and buildings, leaving thousands without electricity. Videos of the huge tornado are making the rounds on the internet and the shocking video has left users flabbergasted.

On Friday (April 29), a large tornado tore through parts of the United States' Kansas, destroying homes and buildings, leaving thousands without electricity. Videos of the huge tornado are making the rounds on the internet and the shocking video has left users flabbergasted. Also read | 'Ghost of Kyiv' killed in fighting, has shot down 40 Russian jets Watch it here: Highest-res drone footage of the Andover, KS #tornado which has received a preliminary rating of EF3. Note how the tornado propagates via vortex dynamics and likely terrain. Incredibly, no lives were lost by this tornado pic.twitter.com/FJDBH8TAv6 — Reed Timmer (@ReedTimmerAccu) April 30, 2022 × As of now, no fatalities or serious injuries have been reported from the tornado itself, although three college students lost their lives storm chasing. 19-year-old Gavin Short; 20-year-old Nicholas Nair; and 22-year-old Drake Brooks, meteorology students at the University of Oklahoma were killed in a car crash as they were returning from storm chasing. Watch | Climate Crisis: Iraq's green belt left barren As per authorities, more than 1000 buildings were affected when the strong twister swept through Andover, Kansas, leaving behind a trail of destruction far worse than what was estimated. The YMCA in Andover was severely damaged, as seen in social media videos. Cars can be seen being thrown against walls by the sheer intensity of the storm in these citizen-shot videos. Andover KS tornado damage here is the Dr. Jim Farha YMCA a total of twelve vehicles were thrown against the building. Two cars went in the front door. #kswx #AndoverTornado pic.twitter.com/7kphbZOQ4k — Jeff Piotrowski (@Jeff_Piotrowski) April 30, 2022 × However, as per a Facebook post by the Greater Wichita YMCA, none of the staff that took shelter inside the building were injured. Also read | Claims of an ancient human in the modern era shake the scientific community. Here's what you need to know Deputy fire chief Mike Roosevelt while addressing the press said "We now know that our damage path extended approximately 3.5 to 4 miles (5.6 to 6.4 kilometres) to the North of where we believed it to have ended last night." According to a Reuters report, the tornado was part of a storm system that has been wreaking havoc in Kansas and Nebraska, two states that are part of "tornado alley," a region of the United States known for its high frequency of tornadoes. (With inputs from agencies)

Kansas tornado's trail of devastation: Videos show cars being tossed into walls. Watch it here

A tornado moved into southern US state Louisiana and struck parts of the state’s biggest city New Orleans and its suburbs. Residents were seen combing through the rubble of their homes. Homes were damaged in a dozen Mississippi counties.

Watch: Extensive damage as fierce tornado lashes New Orleans

Four adults and two children were killed when a tornado hit Madison County in the US state of Iowa on Saturday, officials said.

At least four other adults were injured in the tornado that caused "widespread damage to both homes and properties," the county's emergency management director told a press briefing.

"This is, I think, the worst that anyone has seen in quite a long time," Diogenes Ayala said.&nbsp;"This will be impactful for many years to come."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-holds-phone-call-with-joe-biden-pushes-for-more-us-support-to-ukraine-459443">Zelensky holds phone call with Joe Biden, pushes for more US support to Ukraine</a>

National Weather Service Des Moines tweeted at 7:30 pm (0130 GMT Sunday) that "the worst is over for central Iowa."&nbsp;

"Storms are moving off to the East. Areas west of the line, including the Des Moines metro, are in the clear."

NWS said its survey teams would thoroughly investigate the damage on Sunday.

"This is pretty devastating for our community," Ayala said, adding that rescue efforts would continue overnight.

Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds issued a disaster proclamation for Madison County, which allows state resources to be used to assist with recovery.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sydney-faces-more-rain-as-death-toll-from-australian-floods-rises-to-17-459463">Sydney faces more rain as death toll from Australian floods rises to 17</a>

"Our hearts go out to all those affected by the deadly storms that tore through our state today," Reynolds said in a statement.&nbsp;

In December, dozens of devastating tornadoes ripped through five US states overnight, leaving at least 79 people dead&nbsp;in Kentucky -- with fatalities also recorded in Tennessee, Arkansas, Missouri and Illinois.

Four adults and two children were killed when a tornado hit Madison County in the US state of Iowa on Saturday, officials said. At least four other adults were injured in the tornado that caused "widespread damage to both homes and properties," the county's emergency management director told a press briefing.

Four adults and two children were killed when a tornado hit Madison County in the US state of Iowa on Saturday, officials said. At least four other adults were injured in the tornado that caused "widespread damage to both homes and properties," the county's emergency management director told a press briefing. "This is, I think, the worst that anyone has seen in quite a long time," Diogenes Ayala said. "This will be impactful for many years to come." Also read | Zelensky holds phone call with Joe Biden, pushes for more US support to Ukraine National Weather Service Des Moines tweeted at 7:30 pm (0130 GMT Sunday) that "the worst is over for central Iowa." "Storms are moving off to the East. Areas west of the line, including the Des Moines metro, are in the clear." NWS said its survey teams would thoroughly investigate the damage on Sunday. "This is pretty devastating for our community," Ayala said, adding that rescue efforts would continue overnight. Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds issued a disaster proclamation for Madison County, which allows state resources to be used to assist with recovery. Also read | Sydney faces more rain as death toll from Australian floods rises to 17 "Our hearts go out to all those affected by the deadly storms that tore through our state today," Reynolds said in a statement. In December, dozens of devastating tornadoes ripped through five US states overnight, leaving at least 79 people dead in Kentucky -- with fatalities also recorded in Tennessee, Arkansas, Missouri and Illinois.

Two children among six killed in US tornado

Sonny 'Hoot' Gibson was standing in the rubble of his three-story office building in downtown Mayfield, Kentucky, nine days after a tornado destroyed it when he thought he heard a faint meow.

The meow made him think of his office cat, Madix, and at that moment, he was encouraged to think that the cat had survived the storms.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-80-people-dead-as-tornadoes-rip-through-us-kentucky-worst-hit-436158">Over 80 people dead as tornadoes rip through US; Kentucky worst-hit</a>

Gibson said he had spent several days trying to locate the black cat with yellow eyes, but had given up after a few days. The cat liked to greet customers at his business.

However, the tornado itself and its aftermath inflicted so much destruction that he wondered how anything could've survived.

Gibson was standing in the rubble when he heard the noise on Sunday afternoon.

Firstly, I thought I heard a meow, and then I thought my mind was tricking me, so I called his name and he meowed again, says Gibson.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/when-deadly-tornadoes-hit-us-state-woman-claims-superman-saved-her-life-436893">When deadly tornadoes hit US state, woman claims 'superman' saved her life</a>

As the noise was muffled, he called some of his colleagues and they came to help search for Madix. After a short time, the team found the cat in a hole below the rubble.

I was amazed by how incredible it felt to hold him in my arms, Gibson said. In this nine-day period, he probably used up approximately eight of the nine lives cats have, he added.

Madix was largely unharmed, except that he was starving and thirsty. The cat was taken by Gibson to his home, where he will live the rest of his life as a house cat.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: 'Deadliest' tornado hits Kentucky

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-deadliest-tornado-hits-kentucky-436698/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In Mayfield, where a long-track tornado ravaged the community, the story of Madix the survivor is becoming increasingly popular.

Hearing this story is a blessing because people can see that great things can come from awful situations. If it can inspire even one person, then Madix has accomplished his mission on this planet, remarked Gibson.

Mayfield&nbsp;in Kentucky was hit hard as&nbsp;several areas in the US suffered&nbsp;heavy damages. Reports say Kentucky was struck by the worst tornado in over a century.

A state of emergency was declared in Kentucky and national guards were brought in for rescue effort with several fatalities reported in the&nbsp;Amazon distribution&nbsp;centre in Illinois.

(With inputs from agencies)

Sonny 'Hoot' Gibson was standing in the rubble of his three-story office building in downtown Mayfield, Kentucky, nine days after a tornado destroyed it when he thought he heard a faint meow.

Sonny 'Hoot' Gibson was standing in the rubble of his three-story office building in downtown Mayfield, Kentucky, nine days after a tornado destroyed it when he thought he heard a faint meow. The meow made him think of his office cat, Madix, and at that moment, he was encouraged to think that the cat had survived the storms. Also read | Over 80 people dead as tornadoes rip through US; Kentucky worst-hit Gibson said he had spent several days trying to locate the black cat with yellow eyes, but had given up after a few days. The cat liked to greet customers at his business. However, the tornado itself and its aftermath inflicted so much destruction that he wondered how anything could've survived. Gibson was standing in the rubble when he heard the noise on Sunday afternoon. Firstly, I thought I heard a meow, and then I thought my mind was tricking me, so I called his name and he meowed again, says Gibson. Also read | When deadly tornadoes hit US state, woman claims 'superman' saved her life As the noise was muffled, he called some of his colleagues and they came to help search for Madix. After a short time, the team found the cat in a hole below the rubble. I was amazed by how incredible it felt to hold him in my arms, Gibson said. In this nine-day period, he probably used up approximately eight of the nine lives cats have, he added. Madix was largely unharmed, except that he was starving and thirsty. The cat was taken by Gibson to his home, where he will live the rest of his life as a house cat. Watch | Gravitas: 'Deadliest' tornado hits Kentucky In Mayfield, where a long-track tornado ravaged the community, the story of Madix the survivor is becoming increasingly popular. Hearing this story is a blessing because people can see that great things can come from awful situations. If it can inspire even one person, then Madix has accomplished his mission on this planet, remarked Gibson. Mayfield in Kentucky was hit hard as several areas in the US suffered heavy damages. Reports say Kentucky was struck by the worst tornado in over a century. A state of emergency was declared in Kentucky and national guards were brought in for rescue effort with several fatalities reported in the Amazon distribution centre in Illinois. (With inputs from agencies)

'Madix' the cat rescued after 9 days under rubble following deadly tornado in Kentucky

Who says miracles don’t happen in real world. In what may turn several people into a believer, two babies have survived a tornado in Kentucky state of the US recently. &nbsp;&nbsp;

No, we are not kidding. In the recent tornadoes, 15-month-old Kaden and three-month-old Dallas, who had taken shelter in the bathtub with a blanket, pillow and Bible on last Friday, have miraculously survived the onslaught of the nature. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/madrid-thousands-dressed-as-santa-take-part-in-charity-run-for-volcano-hit-la-palma-438222" hreflang="en">Madrid: Thousands dressed as Santa take part in charity run for volcano-hit La Palma</a>

The tornado had ripped the bathtub out of the ground and tossed it into the yard, grandmother of the children said. &nbsp;

When the tornado struck, the house, which is located in Hopkins county, started shaking, said the grandparent, Clara Lutz. &nbsp;&nbsp;

“Next thing I knew, the tub had lifted and it was out of my hands. I couldn’t hold on. I just – oh my God. All I could say was, ‘Lord please bring my babies back safely. Please, I beg thee’,” Lutz told WFIE-TV. &nbsp;

Lutz, whose house was stripped to the foundation, got hit in the back of the head by the water tank of the tub. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-from-typhoon-rai-climbs-to-208-in-philippines-over-50-missing-national-police-438246" hreflang="en">Death toll from Typhoon Rai climbs to 208 in Philippines, over 50 missing: National Police</a>

After the tornado strike, Lutz looked everywhere for her grandchildren, who were found alive underneath an upside-down bathtub in her yard. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Dallas had got injured on the back of his head but bleeding stopped before reaching Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, she said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Who says miracles don’t happen in real world. In what may turn several people into a believer, two babies have survived a tornado in Kentucky state of the US recently.

Who says miracles don’t happen in real world. In what may turn several people into a believer, two babies have survived a tornado in Kentucky state of the US recently. No, we are not kidding. In the recent tornadoes, 15-month-old Kaden and three-month-old Dallas, who had taken shelter in the bathtub with a blanket, pillow and Bible on last Friday, have miraculously survived the onslaught of the nature. Also Read | Madrid: Thousands dressed as Santa take part in charity run for volcano-hit La Palma The tornado had ripped the bathtub out of the ground and tossed it into the yard, grandmother of the children said. When the tornado struck, the house, which is located in Hopkins county, started shaking, said the grandparent, Clara Lutz. “Next thing I knew, the tub had lifted and it was out of my hands. I couldn’t hold on. I just – oh my God. All I could say was, ‘Lord please bring my babies back safely. Please, I beg thee’,” Lutz told WFIE-TV. Lutz, whose house was stripped to the foundation, got hit in the back of the head by the water tank of the tub. Also Read | Death toll from Typhoon Rai climbs to 208 in Philippines, over 50 missing: National Police After the tornado strike, Lutz looked everywhere for her grandchildren, who were found alive underneath an upside-down bathtub in her yard. Dallas had got injured on the back of his head but bleeding stopped before reaching Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, she said. (With inputs from agencies)

In miraculous save, two babies in US survive tornado by sheltering in bathtub

I’m a tornado climatologist, and it is not unusual for people to ask me after a spate of storms like the ones that ripped through the center of the country on Friday whether climate change has anything to do with it. The answer is: It’s complicated.

We have started to detect changes in collective tornado activity, including more powerful storms, and are beginning to understand how these changes might be related to global warming. But much more work needs to be done to gain a fuller understanding of how the changing climate is influencing these deadly storms.

Let’s start with what we know. A tornado is a rapidly rotating column of air inside a thunderstorm. A thunderstorm that lasts more than 20 minutes and is energized by continuously rising air is called a supercell. The rising air is fueled by warm, moist conditions and changes in wind speed or direction associated with the approach of a frontal system where warm and cool air collide. The warm, moist air and that wind shear can generate a series of supercells, some of which produce tornadoes.

Connecting tornadoes to climate change is complicated because those twin conditions are necessary but not sufficient together for tornadoes to occur. A close-packed group of supercells, for instance, might produce straight-line winds rather than tornadoes. What’s needed to generate an outbreak of tornadoes — say, six to 10 of them — is ample heat, moisture and wind shear. But too much of any one or two of those conditions can disrupt the process of tornado formation.

Although tornadoes across the years do not appear to have become more common, an increasing percentage of them are occurring in outbreaks. The tornadoes that included Friday night’s so-called quad-state tornado — which crossed four states and devastated the town of Mayfield, Ky. — are an example of an outbreak. These are on the rise. On a day with at least one tornado, the chance that there are at least seven more increased to more than 15 percent on average by 2015 from 10 percent in 1990. These increases are even more substantial for larger outbreaks like the one that occurred on Friday night.

Here’s what we’ve also been seeing: A below average number of tornadoes this year; outbreaks becoming more common during cooler months in recent years; and tornadoes occurring more often across the Southeast compared with the Great Plains. Cities with the largest decreases in the number of strong tornadoes since 1984 include Dallas, Oklahoma City and Houston. Cities with the largest increases in the number of strong tornadoes since 1984 are Atlanta, Nashville and Augusta.

There is also evidence that tornadoes are getting stronger. Tornadoes are rated based on the severity of damage they inflict, using what’s known as the EF scale. The rating is made after the fact by forensic experts, and it depends on factors including the type of object struck and how the object was constructed.

The damage rating can be converted to a range of wind speeds. For example, a tornado rated as inflicting EF2 damage likely had wind speeds between 111 to 135 mph in a three-second gust. But the subjective nature of the rating process and the randomness of where a tornado tracks make it difficult to draw any definitive conclusions about tornado activity by counting the number of these storms in each rating category.

An increase in the number of large clusters does imply a larger threat of damaging tornadoes, however: The percentage of violent tornadoes (EF4, with winds of 166 to 200 miles per hour or more) increases with the size of the outbreak. Historically in an outbreak with between 16 and 32 tornadoes, fewer than 4 percent of them on average get rated EF3, with winds of 136 to 165 miles per hour or worse. In an outbreak with at least 60 tornadoes, more than 8 percent of them get rated EF3 or worse.

What is causing these changes in tornado behavior is still unclear, but global warming is probably playing a role through changes to the environments that support supercell clusters. Specifically, the extra heated moist air fueling the supercells on Friday was associated with an exceptionally warm Gulf of Mexico caused by climate change.

Also, the interaction between the extra heating and increased wind shear is associated with larger outbreaks, which produce the strongest and longest-track tornadoes, on average. We found that tornado power, estimated using damage path characteristics, increased at a rate of 5 percent per year from 1994 to 2016. At least some of the upward trend can be associated with changes to the outbreak environment.

Attributing causation is difficult. But it is a big and an important step beyond the associations and pattern matching work that we and others have done. Attribution studies are now routinely done on heat waves and floods, but it may take some time before such studies of tornadoes are reliable because these storms still are too small in size for weather forecast models to see.

The ability to determine whether particular tornadoes bear the signature of the changing climate will be important not only to understanding the shifting dynamics of our warming world but to our ability to predict these storms with greater precision.

I’m a tornado climatologist, and it is not unusual for people to ask me after a spate of storms like the ones that ripped through the center of the country on Friday whether climate change has anything to do with it.

I’m a tornado climatologist, and it is not unusual for people to ask me after a spate of storms like the ones that ripped through the center of the country on Friday whether climate change has anything to do with it. The answer is: It’s complicated. We have started to detect changes in collective tornado activity, including more powerful storms, and are beginning to understand how these changes might be related to global warming. But much more work needs to be done to gain a fuller understanding of how the changing climate is influencing these deadly storms. Let’s start with what we know. A tornado is a rapidly rotating column of air inside a thunderstorm. A thunderstorm that lasts more than 20 minutes and is energized by continuously rising air is called a supercell. The rising air is fueled by warm, moist conditions and changes in wind speed or direction associated with the approach of a frontal system where warm and cool air collide. The warm, moist air and that wind shear can generate a series of supercells, some of which produce tornadoes. Connecting tornadoes to climate change is complicated because those twin conditions are necessary but not sufficient together for tornadoes to occur. A close-packed group of supercells, for instance, might produce straight-line winds rather than tornadoes. What’s needed to generate an outbreak of tornadoes — say, six to 10 of them — is ample heat, moisture and wind shear. But too much of any one or two of those conditions can disrupt the process of tornado formation. Although tornadoes across the years do not appear to have become more common, an increasing percentage of them are occurring in outbreaks. The tornadoes that included Friday night’s so-called quad-state tornado — which crossed four states and devastated the town of Mayfield, Ky. — are an example of an outbreak. These are on the rise. On a day with at least one tornado, the chance that there are at least seven more increased to more than 15 percent on average by 2015 from 10 percent in 1990. These increases are even more substantial for larger outbreaks like the one that occurred on Friday night. Here’s what we’ve also been seeing: A below average number of tornadoes this year; outbreaks becoming more common during cooler months in recent years; and tornadoes occurring more often across the Southeast compared with the Great Plains. Cities with the largest decreases in the number of strong tornadoes since 1984 include Dallas, Oklahoma City and Houston. Cities with the largest increases in the number of strong tornadoes since 1984 are Atlanta, Nashville and Augusta. There is also evidence that tornadoes are getting stronger. Tornadoes are rated based on the severity of damage they inflict, using what’s known as the EF scale. The rating is made after the fact by forensic experts, and it depends on factors including the type of object struck and how the object was constructed. The damage rating can be converted to a range of wind speeds. For example, a tornado rated as inflicting EF2 damage likely had wind speeds between 111 to 135 mph in a three-second gust. But the subjective nature of the rating process and the randomness of where a tornado tracks make it difficult to draw any definitive conclusions about tornado activity by counting the number of these storms in each rating category. An increase in the number of large clusters does imply a larger threat of damaging tornadoes, however: The percentage of violent tornadoes (EF4, with winds of 166 to 200 miles per hour or more) increases with the size of the outbreak. Historically in an outbreak with between 16 and 32 tornadoes, fewer than 4 percent of them on average get rated EF3, with winds of 136 to 165 miles per hour or worse. In an outbreak with at least 60 tornadoes, more than 8 percent of them get rated EF3 or worse. What is causing these changes in tornado behavior is still unclear, but global warming is probably playing a role through changes to the environments that support supercell clusters. Specifically, the extra heated moist air fueling the supercells on Friday was associated with an exceptionally warm Gulf of Mexico caused by climate change. Also, the interaction between the extra heating and increased wind shear is associated with larger outbreaks, which produce the strongest and longest-track tornadoes, on average. We found that tornado power, estimated using damage path characteristics, increased at a rate of 5 percent per year from 1994 to 2016. At least some of the upward trend can be associated with changes to the outbreak environment. Attributing causation is difficult. But it is a big and an important step beyond the associations and pattern matching work that we and others have done. Attribution studies are now routinely done on heat waves and floods, but it may take some time before such studies of tornadoes are reliable because these storms still are too small in size for weather forecast models to see. The ability to determine whether particular tornadoes bear the signature of the changing climate will be important not only to understanding the shifting dynamics of our warming world but to our ability to predict these storms with greater precision.

Was Climate Change to blame for the tornadoes, or was it just really bad weather?

A natural calamity brings destruction to any community. People are always helpless when the elements decide to turn from their nurturing selves to destructing ones. It's recovery from troubles that defines human spirit and small things give a boost to the communities which are holding hands to stand up again after a calamity.

The state of Kentucky is US is gathering itself after it was hit by a tornado. The storm was deadliest in Kentucky's history. As people recover from damage to their property and things, some unbelievable stories are coming to light.

Michaela Copeland, a woman who had kept her wedding photos in her parents' house was devastated when they were lost as the tornado hit. Her parents stayed in Mayfield, a town one of the hardest hit. She got the photos eventually but not before a surprise.

Strong winds of the tornado had flown some of her photographs to Breckinridge County, a town 225 km (140 miles) away!

In the aftermath of the tornado, people in the region formed Facebook groups to better co-ordinate the rescue and salvage effort. These groups also shared information about lost items.

Three of Michaela Copeland's photos were uploaded on one such groups 'Quad State Tornado Found Items'. People started tagging her, much to her surprise over the fact the pics were carried by the winds for nore than 200 kms away.

"When I found out and was tagged in each photo that was found, I got chills down my spine and thought it was so bizarre. Finding one is one thing but three is crazy," she said. She was quoted by BBC.

US President Joe Biden on Wednesday visited hardest hit area in Kentucky.

In storm-ravaged Mayfield, Biden received a briefing from Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear and emergency response officials about the recovery effort. Biden said it was remarkable how the area's communities had come together to help each other out.

"There's no red tornadoes, there's no blue tornadoes," he said, referring to the colors associated with Democrats and Republicans.

The president's goal was to survey storm damage and make sure the U.S. government is doing everything it can to deliver assistance as quickly as possible to the hard-hit areas, White House deputy press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters on the flight from Washington.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has sent search-and-rescue and emergency response teams to Kentucky, along with teams to help survivors register for assistance.

(With inputs from agencies)

A natural calamity brings destruction to any community. People are always helpless when the elements decide to turn from their nurturing selves to destructing ones.

A natural calamity brings destruction to any community. People are always helpless when the elements decide to turn from their nurturing selves to destructing ones. It's recovery from troubles that defines human spirit and small things give a boost to the communities which are holding hands to stand up again after a calamity. The state of Kentucky is US is gathering itself after it was hit by a tornado. The storm was deadliest in Kentucky's history. As people recover from damage to their property and things, some unbelievable stories are coming to light. Michaela Copeland, a woman who had kept her wedding photos in her parents' house was devastated when they were lost as the tornado hit. Her parents stayed in Mayfield, a town one of the hardest hit. She got the photos eventually but not before a surprise. Strong winds of the tornado had flown some of her photographs to Breckinridge County, a town 225 km (140 miles) away! In the aftermath of the tornado, people in the region formed Facebook groups to better co-ordinate the rescue and salvage effort. These groups also shared information about lost items. Three of Michaela Copeland's photos were uploaded on one such groups 'Quad State Tornado Found Items'. People started tagging her, much to her surprise over the fact the pics were carried by the winds for nore than 200 kms away. "When I found out and was tagged in each photo that was found, I got chills down my spine and thought it was so bizarre. Finding one is one thing but three is crazy," she said. She was quoted by BBC. US President Joe Biden on Wednesday visited hardest hit area in Kentucky. In storm-ravaged Mayfield, Biden received a briefing from Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear and emergency response officials about the recovery effort. Biden said it was remarkable how the area's communities had come together to help each other out. "There's no red tornadoes, there's no blue tornadoes," he said, referring to the colors associated with Democrats and Republicans. The president's goal was to survey storm damage and make sure the U.S. government is doing everything it can to deliver assistance as quickly as possible to the hard-hit areas, White House deputy press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters on the flight from Washington. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has sent search-and-rescue and emergency response teams to Kentucky, along with teams to help survivors register for assistance. (With inputs from agencies)

Photos lost in Kentucky tornado found in town 225 kms away

US President Joe Biden arrived in Kentucky Wednesday to survey the damage caused by last week's tornadoes, which caused death and destruction in several communities.

US President Joe Biden visits Kentucky to survey tornado damage

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