At least 23 people were killed when a massive tornado ripped through rural Mississippi just after sundown on Friday (March 24, 2022).
As daylight dawned Saturday morning, the extent of the destruction left behind by the monster tornado that tore through several rural communities in the Mississippi delta could be seen. Dozens of homes were turned to rubble and tens of thousands were left without power by the twister that stayed on the ground for roughly 100 miles.
Reports estimate that the tornado may have reached up to two miles wide at some points along its path. The small town of Rolling Fork was left “unrecognizable,” according to one of the first responders on the scene. The town suffered a confirmed 13 casualties overnight, though that number is expected to rise as rescuers sift through the debris.
More were killed as the storm swept northeast and impacted other Mississippi and Alabama communities. As of press time, at least four people are still missing.
The National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center reported that at least two dozen tornado reports were made across the two states Friday night. Some of the hardest hit areas included Rolling Fork, Silver City and Winona, Mississippi.
Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves issues a statement on Twitter Saturday morning requesting prayer for those in his state affected by the horrific storms.
“At least twenty three Mississippians were killed by last night’s violent tornados. We know that many more are injured. Search and rescue teams are still active,” he wrote. “The loss will be felt in these towns forever. Please pray for God’s hand to be over all who lost family and friends.”
At least twenty three Mississippians were killed by last night’s violent tornados. We know that many more are injured. Search and rescue teams are still active.
The loss will be felt in these towns forever. Please pray for God’s hand to be over all who lost family and friends.
— Governor Tate Reeves (@tatereeves) March 25, 2023