Storms Cause Flooding and Damage in Ozarks and New York
- A series of powerful storms has led to widespread flooding and damage from the Ozarks to New York.
- The relentless weather caused power outages and fatalities, severely affecting tens of thousands of people.
- As the affected regions recover, the need for improved disaster management strategies is highlighted.
A new wave of severe storms has wreaked havoc across parts of the United States and Canada, resulting in flash floods, tornadoes, and numerous water rescues. The Ozark Mountains experienced particularly heavy rainfall, with some areas in Arkansas and Missouri receiving up to 11 inches overnight. In Yellville, Arkansas, emergency services evacuated 86 residents from a nursing home as floodwaters rose to approximately four feet, prompting urgent rescue operations. In addition to flooding, a tornado rated EF1 struck Lyme, New Hampshire, on Tuesday night, causing significant damage over a 1.8-mile path. The tornado uprooted at least 100 trees and damaged structures, including historic churches in the region. Witnesses described the scene as chaotic, with debris flying and mobile homes overturned. Marion County Sheriff Gregg Alexander noted the challenges posed by the flooding, stating that while the rain was needed, the aftermath would require time to clean up. The storms have resulted in at least five fatalities across the U.S., including one in New York. Authorities reported multiple rescues from flooded highways, highlighting the severity of the situation. As the weather system moves eastward, a cold front is expected to bring scattered showers and thunderstorms, offering some relief from the oppressive heat that has affected the eastern and central United States in recent days.