As Many As 100 Dead in Kentucky After Giant Tornado

Dozens are dead after a tornado ripped through a Kentucky town. It may be one of the largest tornadoes in American history.

Summary

More than 70 people are dead after a tornado ripped through Mayfield, Kentucky Friday night, with Gov. Andy Beshear saying the death toll will likely exceed 100.

• The tornado’s track and destruction “could rival the longest on record.” 
• The weather is unusual for winter with high temperatures and humidity creating “the environment for such extreme weather.” 
• Rescue crews are combing through the wreckage of a candle factory in Mayfield where 110 were working during the night. 
• Authorities are asking people not to travel to the affected areas unless they’re “actively involved in rescue operations.”

• NBC News reported on the National Weather Service’s investigation into the tornado, saying it could be the longest tornado in history and suggesting “climate change may have also played a role.” 
• ABC News also speculated on how climate change may have been a factor in the out-of-season storm. 
• CNN reported on the hunt for a work release inmate who was working at the candle factory hit by the tornado and didn’t report back to prison after being released from the hospital.

• Daily Caller reported on President Biden’s declaration of a state of emergency for Kentucky, noting Biden’s intention to visit Kentucky “but he doesn’t want to be in the way of ongoing rescue efforts.” 
• Townhall focused on Biden’s remarks that “obviously” climate change had an impact but that specifics were difficult to pinpoint. 
• Fox News highlighted ire pointed at Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul, a Republican, by various liberal politicians and commentators blaming him for “blocking legislation to reduce climate change.”

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© Dallas Gerber, 2021