Massive Storm Leaves at Least 39 Dead as US Hit by Tornadoes, Wildfires, Blinding Dust

Tornadoes claimed at least a dozen lives in Missouri, decimating homes and businesses in hard-hit Wayne County.

Residents look for personal belongings in the damage after a tornado passed through where two people lost their lives, in Plantersville, Ala., on March 16, 2025. Butch Dill/AP Photo

Violent weather broke out across the central and southern United States this weekend, sending tornadoes and high winds that flattened homes and schools, with the monstrous storm killing at least 39 people as of March 16.

The storm, which led to icy winter weather in the northern part of the country and fatal dust storms in the central United States, also created severe thunderstorms on March 16, including on the West Coast. A weather forecaster gave it the unusual “high risk” designation.