A new tornado watch was issued on Sunday for parts of West Virginia, Ohio, and Pennsylvania, as millions of Americans remain on high alert for a severe weather outbreak. Violent, long-track tornadoes accompanied by damaging winds of up to 80 mph and large hail are expected to impact the Midwest and South as the massive storm system moves eastward.

Deadly Impact Across Multiple States

The same storm system had already unleashed devastating winds across the Plains states earlier, fueling wildfires and severe dust storms that claimed more than a dozen lives in Kansas, Texas, and Oklahoma. In total, at least 40 deaths have been reported across seven states due to the powerful storm system.

Death Toll Reaches 40

Officials confirmed on Sunday that at least 40 people have lost their lives as a result of the severe weather outbreak.

• Missouri reported the highest number of fatalities, with at least 12 deaths.

• In Alabama, Governor Kay Ivey announced that at least three people were killed on Saturday. "Yesterday's severe weather impacted most of Alabama," Ivey stated. She confirmed that one person died in Plantersville and another in Winterboro. A total of 52 out of 67 counties in the state reported damage, and officials continue to assess the destruction.

• Kansas recorded at least eight deaths.

• Mississippi reported six fatalities.

• Texas suffered four casualties.

• Arkansas reported three deaths.

• Oklahoma confirmed four fatalities.

Ongoing Emergency Response

Authorities and emergency response teams are actively working to assess the full extent of the damage, provide aid to affected communities, and restore essential services. Governor Ivey expressed gratitude for first responders, emergency management officials, and utility workers engaged in relief efforts.

As the storm system continues its path eastward, residents in its projected trajectory are urged to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect their lives and property.