At least 11 people, including two young children, lost their lives after powerful tornadoes tore through rural areas of Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas. The destructive storms caused significant damage, leaving many injured and homes destroyed.

In Valley View, Texas, about 60 miles north of Dallas, a tornado struck, causing a crowded gas station where people were seeking shelter to collapse. The tragic incident resulted in additional casualties and left around 80 people injured. As officials assess the situation, they warn that the death toll is likely to rise.

Cooke County Sheriff Ray Sappington confirmed that seven people were killed in the overnight storm, which extensively impacted a trailer park and the AP Travel Center. Many of those seeking refuge at the gas station were trapped inside but managed to survive. However, as rescue efforts continue, authorities fear the number of fatalities may increase.

Two children, aged 2 and 5, were among those who tragically lost their lives in Valley View. The tornado spared no mercy, tearing through the mobile home park and leaving behind utter devastation. Sheriff Sappington described the damage as severe, with only fragments remaining of what was once a thriving community.

In other areas, such as Pryor, Oklahoma, at least two people were reported dead and five others injured. The town of Claremore, located about 17 miles away, also suffered from a tornado's fury, but luckily only minor injuries were reported.

As search-and-rescue operations are underway, officials urge locals to stay away from storm-damaged areas in Texas due to downed power lines and potential gas leaks, which could pose serious risks to public safety.

While the affected communities face great challenges in recovering from the deadly storm, Sheriff Sappington expressed confidence in their resilience and the ability to rebuild the damaged areas. He acknowledged that although the loss of life is heartbreaking, the spirit of Texas will prevail, and the communities will unite to restore what has been lost.

In the wake of the devastating tornadoes, two children were reported missing in Cooke County, intensifying the search and rescue efforts.

Forecasters had earlier issued tornado and severe thunderstorm warnings for parts of Texas and Oklahoma amid record-breaking heat over the Memorial Day weekend. The storm system is anticipated to move eastward, causing rainfall that could impact the Indianapolis 500 auto race and bring further severe weather to Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, and Kentucky. Additionally, forecasters predict a risk of severe weather in North Carolina and Virginia on Monday.

As affected communities assess the extensive damage and work towards recovery, support and assistance from neighboring regions and national agencies will play a crucial role in helping those affected rebuild their lives and heal from this tragic event.