Alabama and Georgia were ravaged by tornadoes on Sunday, leaving at least 23 people dead. Children have been reported to be among the casualties. The death toll had been revised upwards from 14 to 23, and officials warn that it could rise yet again.
Reports are that two tornadoes hit Lee County, Alabama within the span of just one hour. These two tornadoes appear to have been responsible for much of the damage. However, on Sunday afternoon at least a dozen tornadoes struck Alabama and Georgia. Tornadoes were also spotted in South Carolina, although no casualties were reported and damage appears to have been limited.
While tornadoes are often associated with the tornado ally in the Midwest, the deep south has been hit by its fair share of twisters. In 2011, a tornado struck the Tuscaloosa-Birmingham area, killing more than 60 people and injuring many more.
Early warning systems, sturdy buildings, and other measures have helped reduce deaths and injuries caused by tornadoes. Property damage can still be extremely expensive with the 2011 Birmingham tornado causing more than $2 billion in damage.
President Trump took to Twitter to console victims, saying, “To the great people of Alabama and surrounding areas: Please be careful and safe. Tornadoes and storms were truly violent and more could be coming. To the families and friends of the victims, and to the injured, God bless you all!”
President Trump also said on Twitter that he directed FEMA to give Alabama the “A plus treatment.” Presently at 62 percent, President Trump enjoys his highest approval rating in Alabama, according to Morning Consult.
