Devastating Supercells and Tornadoes Ravage the Great Plains to the East Coast Over the Weekend
Written by Meteorologist Mary Wasson
Last updated 5/20/2025, 1:46:47 AM
A devastating tornado outbreak occurred over the weekend, wreaking havoc from the Heartland to the East Coast. Kentucky and Missouri were the hardest-hit areas.
This multi-day severe weather outbreak produced 75 tornado reports, according to the Storm Prediction Center, from Friday, May 16th, through Sunday, May 18th. Unfortunately, over 30 people were killed, and these storms caused widespread destruction of homes, infrastructure, and vehicles.
Friday, May 16th
Sunday, May 18th
Sunday, May 18th
One of the hardest hit areas was in London, Kentucky. Dustin Jordan, a meteorologist for the National Weather Service in Jackson, Kentucky, said that a tornado with the rating of an EF-3 moved across parts of Russell County and into Pulaski and Laurel counties. It impacted the cities of Somerset and London, especially near the airport, where a community of houses was leveled.
AP Photo: Carolyn Kaster
AP Photo: Carolyn Kaster
"We've been doing damage assessments since Saturday," Jordan said in an interview with the Courier Journal. "It's probably going to be on the higher end of EF-3 but I don't want to put an exact number on it just yet."
Meteorologists with the NWS Paducah office have also confirmed several tornadoes in their region on Friday afternoon and evening. Three tornadoes impacted western Kentucky, including an EF-3 tornado in Morganfield with winds of 155 mph, an EF-2 tornado in Allegre, and an EF-2 tornado in Casky.
The St. Louis tornado was classified as an EF-3 by the National Weather Service (NWS) following a damage assessment. The NWS reported that the tornado achieved maximum wind speeds of up to 152 mph. An EF-3 rating indicates a powerful tornado capable of causing substantial damage to homes and infrastructure.
A large wedge tornado struck Plenva, Kansas, on Sunday and is being speculated to potentially reach high-end EF4 intensity, with some suggesting it could even be classified as an EF5. Due to the severe nature of the storm, a rare Tornado Emergency was declared. Significant destruction was reported, including damaged homes, uprooted trees, and downed power lines.
How can you help and donate?
Team Kentucky Storm Relief Fund
St. Louis Community Foundation