A large tornado damaged homes and uprooted trees in Alabama Thursday leaving at least six dead as a powerful storm system pushed through the southeast. Storm damage has also been reported in Mississippi, Georgia, and Kentucky.
The National Weather Prediction Center said that the greatest risk of severe storms, an “enhanced” risk, is predicted for about 9.5 million people in Alabama and Georgia, including the Birmingham, Montgomery, and Atlanta areas.
On Thursday, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) required the world’s busiest airport, the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, to ground flights as the area faced severe weather and thunderstorms. The National Weather Service issued a tornado emergency for several counties just north of the capital city of Montgomery as the storm system moved eastward. “This is a life-threatening situation.” NWS said. “Take shelter immediately.”
Several tornado reports came from across central Alabama as storms ravaged the region. Significant structural damage was first reported south of Greensboro, Alabama, just before 11 a.m. on Thursday.
In Autauga County, Alabama, a rare Tornado Emergency was issued as forecasters said a large and destructive tornado was located outside of Montgomery. Autauga County Sheriff’s Office confirmed to Fox News Digital there were at least six fatalities from the treacherous natural disaster. Authorities have not released how the individuals died.
“You are in a life-threatening situation,” the NWS said during the Tornado Emergency. “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.” (SOURCE)
