All known details thus far about the recent tragic crash have been unveiled by authorities, including an account from a man who was boarding another flight at the Louisville airport.
A routine Tuesday evening transformed into a horrific tragedy when UPS Flight 2976 crashed shortly after takeoff near Louisville, Kentucky, on the evening of Tuesday, November 4, 2025, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed.
A view of smoke rising at the crash site of the UPS plane near Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport in Louisville, Kentucky on November 4, 2025. | Source: Getty Images
FAA Issues Statement as Investigators Scope the Crash Site
The incident occurred around 5:15 p.m. local time after the McDonnell Douglas MD-11 aircraft departed from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport en route to Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu.
In an official statement shared on social media, the FAA noted, “The FAA and NTSB will investigate. The NTSB will lead the investigation and will provide all updates.” Officials also emphasized, “This information is preliminary and subject to change” as details continue to emerge from the crash site.
Plumes of black smoke arise after the UPS plane crash in Louisville, Kentucky. | Source: Getty Images
The crash has sent shockwaves through the local community and beyond. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear expressed his sorrow in a public post, penning, “Please, pray for the families affected, Louisville and [sic] all of Kentucky. We are hurting right now after a heartbreaking day.”
Authorities Speak on the Tragedy in Initial Press Conference
In a gripping press conference held soon after the tragedy, officials warned that things could worsen before they get better. Governor Beshear also reiterated the aforementioned points and the ongoing nature of the investigation.
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear providing updates on the tragic plane crash during an initial press conference involving authorities, posted on November 4, 2025. | Source: X/@LouMetroTV
“I can’t confirm that there was no specifically hazardous cargo onboard of [sic] the plane that would create an environmental issue for those around the site, but the impact and where it impacted could create those types of situations. So, please, if there is a shelter in place, follow it,” added Beshear.
Andy Beshear urging the public to pray for the families involved in the crash. | Source: X/@LouMetroTV
Dozens of Emergency Agencies Swarm the Devastation
Additional agencies involved at the scene include the Kentucky National Guard, Kentucky Office of Homeland Security, the Louisville Fire Department, the Lexington Fire Department, the Bardstown Fire Department, the Shepherdsville Fire Department, Louisville Emergency Management, the Fern Creek Fire Department, and the Pleasure Ridge Park Fire Department.
Fairdale Fire Department, Anchorage Middletown Fire Department, Jefferson Town Fire Department, Airport Police Department, Louisville Metro Police, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Saint Matthews Police Department, Shively Police Department, KSP, Louisville Metro EMS, MSD, Louisville Gas and Electric, and Kentucky Emergency Management are also involved.
At Least Three Dead, and Several More Are Injured, with Numbers Expected to Rise
Initial casualty numbers were also discussed, with the then-current estimated fatalities being three and at least 11 injuries, some severe and being treated by local hospitals. These numbers are expected to grow.
Beshear also confirmed that a victim family reunification center has been established at the Louisville Metro Police Training Academy, located at 2911 Taylor Boulevard. Victim services personnel will be on-site to assist anyone seeking information about loved ones who may have been affected.
Andy Beshear speaking during the press conference addressing the UPS cargo plane crash in Louisville, Kentucky on November 4, 2025. | Source: Getty Images
Additionally, the United Way is offering shelter and resources, and those impacted are encouraged to call 502-376-6617 for assistance.
Officials Unpack Further Details Surrounding the Harrowing Incident
The area directly hit by the crash reportedly includes two primary businesses: Kentucky Patrol and Recycling and Grade A Autoparts. While Grade A Autoparts has been able to account for most of its staff, two employees remain unaccounted for, and the company is working with officials to provide descriptions.
Due to the open and dynamic nature of these facilities — frequented by customers, contractors, and delivery drivers — the full extent of those present during the crash remains unknown. “There is no direct information about nine employees who were there at the time,” Beshear stated, adding that it may take time before responders can verify the safety of everyone who might have been on-site.
As rescue and recovery efforts continue, the shelter-in-place radius has been expanded. It now includes areas north of the airport, but not limited to, the Ohio River, South Louisville, Old Louisville, and Downtown.
LG&E confirmed that while some of its equipment was damaged, there are currently no major power outages. However, some outages may be initiated for safety.
Nearby, the Ford Motor Company plant was not directly hit, though it experienced temporary power loss. The company’s CEO has been in direct contact with local officials, and all employees are reported safe. The Convention Center, which was preparing for upcoming events, has also enacted shelter-in-place protocols, with security halting further entries to ensure public safety.
A view of the Ford Motor Company plant in Louisville, Kentucky on September 26, 2025. | Source: Getty Images
Beshear acknowledged the emotional toll of the crash, emphasizing the pain of uncertainty many families are currently facing.
“Anybody who has seen the images and the video knows how violent this crash is, and there are a lot of families that are going to be waiting and wondering for a period of time,” he said. “If this is a family you know, please give them your support. Please give them your prayers, please give them your love.”
Andy Beshear speaking during the press conference. | Source: Getty Images
The status of the UPS flight crew remains unknown, deepening concerns as the investigation unfolds. “We do not, at the moment, have the status of the crew,” Beshear shared. “Watching that video, I think we’re all very, very worried about them.”
Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg, who was out of town at the time of the incident, is reportedly returning immediately and remains fully engaged in the city’s emergency response efforts. According to Beshear, “He is moving heaven and earth to be back […] and his crew behind me is responding as well as I’ve seen any group do.”
Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg speaking during a press conference at Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport in Louisville, Kentucky on November 4, 2025. | Source: Getty Images
Death Toll Continues to Rise as First Responders Do All They Can
Further updates, including airport operations and ongoing safety measures, were expected at an 8:15 p.m. briefing led by Louisville Emergency Management. Meanwhile, authorities urge patience and solidarity as they work to provide answers in the aftermath of this deeply tragic event.
As emergency crews continued working through the night following Tuesday’s catastrophic plane crash in Louisville, updated figures from local and state officials painted an increasingly grim picture. Mayor Greenburg confirmed that at least seven people have died.
Greenberg provided additional context during an evening update. “There are more than a 100 [sic] firefighters from across the region still on the scene working to make it safe for everyone in our community,” he stated.
The crash involved a UPS MD-11 cargo aircraft carrying more than 38,000 gallons of fuel. The fact that the plane went down shortly after takeoff reinforces what aviation experts often point out: takeoffs and landings are the most dangerous phases of flight.
A UPS MD-11-F cargo jet at the UPS Worldport facility in Louisville, Kentucky on July 21, 2016. | Source: Getty Images
Amid the growing heartbreak, messages of support continue to pour in from across the city. The Muhammad Ali Center, located in the heart of Louisville, issued a heartfelt statement expressing solidarity with those affected.
“[Our] hearts go out to the pilots, crewmembers, families and [sic] businesses,” their statement reads. “We are saddened to learn that there have been multiple confirmed casualties and injuries due to the incident.”
A view of the flames after the UPS cargo plane crashed in Kentucky, posted on November 4, 2025. | Source: Facebook/Kevin Steele
The Center also extended gratitude to first responders, “As emergency responders work throughout the evening and in the days ahead, our heartfelt thanks go out to those who keep our community safe every single day.”
With the death toll rising and dozens injured, the emotional toll continues to weigh heavily on the Louisville community, as families, businesses, and city officials brace for further updates amid a still-unfolding tragedy.
Billows of flames and smoke arising at the crash site. | Source: Facebook/Kevin Steele
Horrific Footage and Images Show the Devastating Impact of the Crash
Disturbing surveillance footage and videos shared by people show the sheer force of the crash’s impact and its aftermath. These captured the exact moment the aircraft plunged from the sky, veering low and fast over a lot filled with parked cars before slamming into structures just beyond the frame.
In a flash, a towering fireball erupts, engulfing the background in flames and thick black smoke. In the seconds following the impact, walls of fire surged across the horizon, spreading rapidly and consuming everything in their path.
Flames engulfing nearby structures after the plane crash. | Source: Facebook/Kevin Steele
A Singer-Songwriter Provides an Account of What He Witnessed
As images of fire and devastation continued to circulate, those inside Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport experienced the unfolding tragedy from a different vantage point. Among them was Josh Mitcham, a singer and songwriter who was preparing to board a flight around the same time the UPS cargo aircraft crashed nearby.
A “stay-in-place” order was issued while Mitcham and others were already seated on their plane. The gravity of the situation became apparent quickly.
The plumes of smoke in the aftermath of the UPS cargo plane tragedy at Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport. | Source: Getty Images
“We didn’t really know what happened,” he told CNN. “The captain came over and said that there had been an accident and that it wasn’t good and that they recommended that we go ahead and get off the plane.”
From his window seat, Mitcham noticed thick, dark smoke billowing into the sky — though he didn’t initially know the source. It wasn’t until later that he learned the smoke stemmed from the tragic crash just outside. He and fellow passengers deboarded the aircraft, and with flights suspended in the wake of the incident, Mitcham rebooked for the following day.
Another view of the thick, black smoke after the crash. | Source: Getty Images
The disruption delayed his travel plans to England, where he was set to begin a ten-day music tour. Though shaken by the experience, Mitcham expressed gratitude for his safety in the wake of such a horrifying event.
“There’s some people lost their lives tonight, and, you know, I’m still here [sic],” he acknowledged. “So no matter what happens, I’m good, and the people on my flight are safe, and it could have been a whole lot worse for us. For those people, it was terrible.”
At this time, we wish to extend our most heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost loved ones as a result of the crash. We hope for their healing amid their time of grief. We also keep those injured in our thoughts as they continue to recover from such a harrowing incident.
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Illinois Gubernatorial Candidate Breaks Silence After Four Family Members Die in Helicopter Crash
The Illinois gubernatorial candidate has spoken out following a devastating personal tragedy. His emotional message comes days after a fatal helicopter crash claimed the lives of several close family members.
Illinois gubernatorial candidate Darren Bailey revealed the devastating loss of his son, Zachary Adam Bailey, along with his daughter-in-law, Kelsey Danielle, and their two children, Vada Rose, 12, and Samuel Isaac, seven. The family of four perished in a harrowing helicopter crash in remote Montana on October 22, 2025 — a date now etched in heartbreak for the Baileys.
Sole Survivor Finnley, 10, ‘Surrounded by Loving Family’
Darren and his wife, Cindy, received the unimaginable news from authorities in Montana. Their only surviving grandchild, Finnley “Finn” Tate, 10, was not on board the doomed aircraft and is now safely in the care of family.
In a heartfelt update shared to X on October 29, Darren gave an update on his surviving grandson, writing, “Their firstborn son, Finnley Tate, age 10, survives, surrounded by loving family.”
The politician also confirmed the ages of his late son and daughter-in-law — 37 and 35, respectively — when they died on October 22, 2025, in Ekalaka. He also thanked supporters for their outpouring of love, prayers, and compassion during this trying time.
Celebration of Life Planned as Community Prepares to Say Goodbye
A celebration of life for the late family will be held on Monday, November 3, 2025, at 9 a.m., hosted at the Oil Belt Christian Service Camp in Illinois. The Baileys, who hailed from Xenia, will be laid to rest in a private burial at Oskaloosa Cemetery, following public visitation hours on Sunday, November 2, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., at the same venue.
Rather than flowers or gifts, the family has requested that memorial donations be made to a GoFundMe established for Finnley’s future. For those wishing to send tributes of flowers or gifts, the family has named The Mustard Seed in Louisville, Illinois, as their designated provider.
Illinois candidate for governor Darren Bailey and his wife, Cindy, arrive at a campaign stop at Crossroads Restaurant on September 21, 2022, in Mundelein, Illinois | Source: Getty Images
Investigation Underway After the Catastrophe
The National Transportation Safety Board confirmed that the family was flying in a Robinson Helicopter R66 when the aircraft crashed under unknown circumstances near Ekalaka.
The Carter County Department of Emergency Services Office disclosed that first responders and law enforcement rushed to the scene at approximately 7:22 p.m. There they were met with the grim aftermath of the accident. The cause remains under active investigation.
‘Heartbroken by This Unimaginable Loss’
In a joint statement with fellow candidate Aaron Del Mar’s campaign, the couple shared a glimpse into their emotional state: “Darren and Cindy are heartbroken by this unimaginable loss. They are finding comfort in their faith, their family, and the prayers of so many who love and care for them.”
The Baileys are now faced with a future forever changed, clinging to faith and the surviving light of one child amid a storm of sorrow. This tragedy has deeply moved communities both locally and beyond. As they prepare to lay their loved ones to rest, they continue to draw strength from their faith and public support.
LeRoy Family Dies in Plane Crash in Nampa, Idaho
The sudden loss of the LeRoy family has drawn heartfelt tributes, including a deeply personal message from a relative who shared stories of love, loyalty, and a late-night coffee run that now holds lasting meaning.
A small aircraft crash in Nampa, Idaho, claimed the lives of three members of the LeRoy family on July 27, 2025. The victims were identified as Brandon LeRoy, 43; Jestene LeRoy, 30; and their 23-month-old son, Paxton LeRoy.
According to the Canyon County Coroner’s Office, Brandon and Jestene were pronounced dead at the scene after suffering multiple blunt force injuries. Despite life-saving efforts, they could not be revived.
The Ada County Coroner confirmed that their toddler, Paxton, died later that evening at St. Luke’s Medical Center in Boise due to injuries sustained in the crash.
The crash occurred near Oak Street, close to the Nampa airport. The Nampa Police Department is leading the investigation. No further official details have been released at this time.
Witnesses in the area described the moment of impact. Leon Garcia, a local resident, recounted, “The police came and told them to stay away cause it might explode.” His wife added, “Like somebody hit a car really hard. I was watching TV.”
Another Oak Street neighbor shared, “This one sounded normal at first and then all of the sudden something kinda told me something is not right there, cause it was making a kinda funny noise.”
Tyler Barnhart, a property renter by profession, noted what he believed to be the pilot’s attempt to minimize damage.
“The pilot did a really good job and turning in the building he avoided the house for sure,” explained Tyler. “There are several obstacles — the tree, the power line and the other shed — and the top of the house, and he missed all that.”
He also shared a message for the victims’ loved ones. “I pray for you guys. I am sorry about the situation.”
Shortly before the crash, Jestene had posted a TikTok video showing her son Paxton riding a bike around the plane. Viewers have since returned to the video, leaving emotional comments.
One person wrote, “not me thinking ‘this sounds dangerous’ then seeing th update [sic].” Another added, “What an eerie feeling watching them be around this plane, not knowing what was coming in their near future. RIP.”
A third commenter shared, “The crash itself was heartbreaking….seeing this just makes it’s worse. Praying for the family [sic].”
Others remarked on the significance of the moment, writing, “hide your life people’s eyes can break mountains [sic],” and “evil eye is real folks hide your blessings [sic].”
As the community processes the tragic loss, Brandon’s cousin, Jeremiah LeRoy, shared a heartfelt tribute that painted a vivid picture of the man, his family, and the impact they had on those around them.
Jeremiah recalled that Brandon had been a part of his life from the start — even welcoming him and his twin brother into the world as an infant. He described Brandon as more than a cousin — a “quiet protector” and a steady presence who was “never too far or too busy” to help.
Their childhood was marked by shared sleepovers, soccer games, family vacations, and endless laughter.
Jeremiah remembered Brandon as strong, supportive, and full of life, someone whose presence lifted those around him, both on and off the soccer field. From their early days in recreational sports to competitive club play in their teens, Brandon stood out as a skilled athlete and reliable teammate.
As they grew older, that bond remained strong. Jeremiah noted that when he launched a semi-professional soccer team in 2023, Brandon was one of the first to join the ownership team and support the project financially, without hesitation.
Brandon’s strength extended far beyond sports. He devoted his adult life to serving others, first as a firefighter and paramedic, then as a nurse, and eventually as a nurse anesthetist.
“Brandon was the person you wanted at your side in a crisis — calm, capable, and completely present,” expressed Jeremiah.
He remembered Brandon’s generosity and sense of adventure vividly. One story stood out: a late-night trip to a Louisville, Kentucky, parking lot where Brandon bought an espresso machine from a couple in a parked truck.
Though the setting was tense, Brandon was thrilled. He had a love for quality coffee and a knack for finding bargains, something he had picked up during yard sale outings with his parents. Brandon bought the machine as a gift — a gesture Jeremiah called “classic Brandon.”
Jeremiah also shared how seamlessly Jestene had joined their family just under three years ago. He further mentioned, “She fit into our lives as if she’d always been a part of it. Not long after, their son Paxton was born — a joyful little boy, full of light. Together, they were building a life marked by love, purpose, and promise.”
Despite the grief, he expressed hope, drawing strength from his Christian faith. He emphasized that they believe this is not the end, and that one day, they will be reunited.
Jeremiah ended his tribute by saying, “Though their time here was far too short, their legacy is everlasting — a legacy of love, courage, joy, and selfless service. A sacred reminder to live each day with purpose, with gratitude, and with unwavering faith.”
Jeremiah’s words offer a glimpse into the family’s enduring influence and the deep sense of loss felt by those closest to them.
Here’s What to Know About Tropical Depression Chantal
Even as the storm loses strength, forecasters and emergency officials are urging residents not to let their guard down — key updates and safety steps remain in effect.
Chantal made landfall early Sunday as a tropical storm between Charleston, South Carolina, and Wilmington, North Carolina. It was downgraded to a tropical depression shortly afterward, according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC) and the Weather Prediction Center (WPC).
The system continues to bring dangerous conditions to parts of the U.S. Southeast as it moves inland. As of 5 p.m. EDT, Chantal was located about 65 miles south-southwest of Raleigh, North Carolina, with sustained winds of 30 mph. It is moving north-northeast at 10 mph and is expected to accelerate toward the northeast through Monday.
Waves crash along the pier at Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, as Tropical Storm Chantal makes landfall, posted on July 7, 2025 | Source: YouTube/ABC News
A tropical storm warning remains in effect for coastal areas from the South Santee River, South Carolina, to Surf City, North Carolina, where conditions remain unstable. Earlier in the day, wind gusts reached 50 mph, with sustained winds of 45 mph reported at Apache Pier in South Carolina.
Inland, flash flood watches have been issued for central North Carolina and south-central Virginia, where 2 to 4 inches of rain are expected, with isolated areas seeing up to 6 inches. These amounts may lead to localized flooding, particularly in urban and low-lying areas.
A tornado watch is also active for eastern North Carolina, where isolated tornadoes remain possible as the storm’s rainbands move across the region.
Along the coastline, life-threatening surf and rip current conditions are expected to continue from northeastern Florida to the Mid-Atlantic states, prompting ongoing advisories for beachgoers and coastal residents.
Forecasters continue to track Chantal’s inland progression and advise residents in affected areas to monitor official updates and follow local emergency guidance.
Officials also urge residents to prepare for potential evacuations and extended emergency conditions. Ready, the official emergency preparedness website of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, encourages individuals to first understand the specific risks facing their community.
Local hazards can vary widely — from hurricanes and floods to wildfires or power outages — so residents are encouraged to use the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) National Risk Index to understand the most likely threats in their area.
A key part of disaster readiness is having a clear evacuation plan in place before an emergency strikes. This includes selecting multiple safe destinations — such as public shelters, hotels, or the homes of friends or relatives — and identifying primary and alternate evacuation routes through local emergency management agencies. Pet owners should also plan ahead, as most shelters allow only service animals.
Equally critical is assembling a disaster supplies kit, also known as a “go-bag.” This pack should include at least one gallon of water per person per day, a several-day supply of non-perishable food, a flashlight, a weather radio (battery-powered or hand-crank), extra batteries, a first aid kit, and hygiene products.
Additional essential items include prescription medications, a phone charger and backup battery, important documents, cash, face masks, a manual can opener, and supplies for infants, seniors, or pets if applicable. These items should be packed in sturdy, easy-to-carry containers and stored in a location known to everyone in the household.
Ready also recommends maintaining separate kits at home, at work, and in your car to ensure access wherever you are when disaster hits.
Before evacuating, residents should prepare their vehicles by filling up gas tanks in advance, since stations may close or lose power during emergencies. Homeowners are advised to secure windows and doors, unplug appliances, and shut off utilities only if instructed.
If evacuation orders are issued, leaving early is advised to avoid being trapped by flooding or road congestion. Those without access to transportation should coordinate with local officials or neighbors ahead of time.
During an evacuation, Ready advises taking the go-bag, securing the home, and following only designated routes — avoiding shortcuts, which may be blocked. Staying informed is critical: the FEMA App, available for smartphones, provides real-time alerts, open shelter locations, and hazard updates.
Officials also recommend listening to a battery-powered radio for emergency instructions. If time permits, residents should inform an out-of-state contact of their destination and leave a note at home for others.
After evacuation, especially for those who left ahead of the storm, residents are advised to return home only when local officials confirm it is safe. According to federal preparedness guidance, power outages, service disruptions, and hazardous conditions — such as downed power lines or storm debris — may still pose risks in affected areas.
Emergency preparedness officials emphasize that planning ahead not only increases safety but also reduces chaos during a crisis.
While current updates focus on staying prepared, storms earlier this year showed how quickly severe weather can turn dangerous. Just two months ago, tornadoes swept through several states, leaving behind widespread damage and dramatic scenes captured on video.
Multiple reports confirmed that tornadoes hit at least five states across the central and eastern U.S. on Wednesday, April 2, triggering flash floods, damaging winds, and emergency warnings.
A powerful tornado sweeps through Lake City, Arkansas, as captured in a live broadcast, posted on April 3, 2025 | Source: YouTube/Fox Weather
One of the most intense tornadoes during Wednesday’s outbreak struck Lake City, Arkansas, where Fox Weather Exclusive Storm Tracker Brandon Copic captured a massive tornado crossing a road directly in front of his vehicle.
The footage, broadcast live, showed swirling debris, flashing power lines, and street signs bending under extreme winds. A FOX Weather anchor, reacting to the footage in real-time, described the storm as a “monster.”
Shortly afterward, Copic encountered another tornado in Caraway, just southeast of Jonesboro. As the storm intensified, he reported live, “This is a strong tornado with the horizontal vortex. This thing is at least an EF 3. This is not weak.”
Meanwhile, a FOX Weather broadcaster tracking the same system described it as a “huge wedge tornado on the ground” with horizontal satellites and multiple vortices.
WREG News Channel 3 described the tornado as “incredible” as it tore through Craighead County, where Lake City is located, leaving visible damage.
Lake City Mayor Cameron Tate confirmed to CNN that at least five homes and one power line were down following the tornado. He added that there were no immediate reports of injuries. The Arkansas Division of Emergency Management also confirmed reports of tornadoes on the ground, according to public information officer Lacey Kanipe.
Kanipe said, “We are working with local emergency management offices for situational awareness and still learning of impacts as they come in. It’s early in the event and we will release more information about potential impacts as it becomes available.”
The outbreak extended beyond Arkansas. In Oklahoma, a tornado touched down in Owasso, a suburb north of Tulsa. Fox Weather shared a video showing damage to homes and trees after the storm struck early Wednesday morning.
In Indiana, warnings escalated throughout the evening. The National Weather Service (NWS) in Indianapolis issued a tornado warning for Brownsburg, Clermont, and Rocky Ripple.
Minutes later, Indiana’s City of Carmel confirmed a tornado on the ground, urging residents to take shelter. In nearby Brownsburg, a warehouse was partially destroyed, highlighting the tornado’s impact on local infrastructure.
In Missouri, Fox Weather shared footage of a tornado in Potosi, warning that severe weather continued to spawn tornadoes throughout the Midwest. Weather.com also confirmed a radar-indicated tornado in the city of Nevada, which caused roof and tree damage.
A tornado was also confirmed near Paxton, Illinois, according to The Weather Channel, adding to the growing list of twisters reported across the Midwest.
Forecasters said storms moving through the mid-Mississippi and Ohio Valleys would likely slow overnight as they encountered a dome of record heat in the Southeast, while new systems were expected to develop over northern Texas. Cities including Dallas, Memphis, Nashville, Louisville, and Cincinnati remained under threat.
The NWS Weather Prediction Center (WPC), in a short-range forecast discussion, warned of a “life-threatening, catastrophic, and potentially historic flash flood event” unfolding across the Lower Ohio Valley and Mid-South.
The risk, they said, would likely persist for several days, fueled by a powerful spring system pulling warm, moist air from the Gulf of Mexico as it moves east.
At the same time, the Storm Prediction Center (SPC) maintained a High Risk warning (Level 5 out of 5) — its highest level — for the same region, where a combination of strong wind shear and instability was expected to produce an outbreak of tornadoes, including multiple intense tornadoes and very large hail.
The system was also expected to support a broad warm sector, generating widespread, intense thunderstorms from the Great Lakes southwest through the Mississippi and Ohio Valleys, the Mid-South, ArkLaTex, and into the Southern Plains.
Additionally, the NWS reported that the storm was bringing a late-season winter system to the Northern Plains and Upper Midwest, with heavy snowfall expected overnight. In the West, unsettled conditions persisted as an upper-level trough moved through the region. Meanwhile, parts of the southern High Plains faced critical fire weather due to dry air and strong winds.
Emergency officials urged the public to stay alert, monitor alerts, and take shelter immediately when conditions worsen.
