In a devastating outbreak of severe weather, at least 22 people have lost their lives, and countless homes have been obliterated across central US. The storm system, which brought tornadoes and fierce thunderstorms, has left nearly 600,000 residents in 13 states without power. As the clean-up efforts begin, forecasters predict that the risk of severe weather will shift eastward, affecting a wide swath of the country from Alabama to New York.

The aftermath of the storms has been nothing short of catastrophic. Twisters and powerful winds have reduced buildings to rubble, overturned cars, and downed power lines. The heavy rain accompanying the storms has caused flash floods in some areas, further exacerbating the damage. Over 600 reports of storm damage have been recorded across 20 states, making Sunday the busiest severe weather day so far this year.

Mother Nature's fury even forced the delay of the renowned Indianapolis 500 race, causing the evacuation of approximately 125,000 spectators due to lightning, thunder, and heavy rain. Tragically, numerous fatalities have been reported across several states, with eight in Arkansas, seven in Texas, two in Oklahoma, and four in Kentucky. Additionally, a 79-year-old woman in Alabama lost her life when a tree fell into her home.

Immediate assistance and support are being provided to the affected states by the federal government. President Joe Biden has spoken with the governors of each affected state and has offered federal assistance to aid in the recovery efforts. Kentucky Governor Andy Bashear has already declared a state of emergency for his state, acknowledging the devastating storms that affected nearly the entire state. Governor Bashear confirmed that four people have died as a result of the severe weather, with one individual currently fighting for their life.

The destructive force of the storms extended beyond human lives. In Colorado, a farmer and 34 cows perished in a tragic lightning strike. Meanwhile, in Texas, a tornado tore through a rural area near a mobile home park in Valley View, claiming the lives of two children, aged two and five, as well as three other family members. Heart-wrenching footage from the affected area shows a filling station and rest stop utterly destroyed, with twisted metal strewn among damaged vehicles.

As the affected regions begin their recovery process, attention turns to the upcoming Atlantic hurricane season. Government forecasters have raised concerns that the 2024 season could be "extraordinary," urging residents to prepare for potential severe weather events in the coming months.

President Biden, accompanied by Vice-President Kamala Harris and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, commemorated Memorial Day at Arlington National Cemetery, paying tribute to the brave men and women who have served in the armed forces. The cemetery serves as the final resting place for countless US veterans.

As the nation mourns the lives lost and rallies to support those affected by the storms, efforts are underway to rebuild and heal communities devastated by this tragic natural disaster.