A violent EF4 tornado with preliminary wind estimates of 190 mph tore through Diaz, Arkansas, marking the strongest tornado to hit the state since the 2014 Vilonia wedge tornado, according to early National Weather Service assessments.
The tornado, just shy of EF5 classification, left a swath of catastrophic damage, flattening homes, toppling power lines, and scattering debris across miles of countryside. Experts say it was the most powerful tornado in Arkansas in over a decade, and part of a broader two-day severe weather outbreak sweeping across the South and Midwest.
The storm system has claimed at least 36 lives, with emergency services continuing search and rescue operations across multiple affected states.
President Trump Responds to Deadly Tornado Outbreak
In the wake of the destruction, U.S. President Donald J. Trump issued a formal statement, expressing condolences and pledging federal support.
“We are actively monitoring the severe tornadoes and storms that have impacted many States across the South and Midwest — 36 innocent lives have been lost, and many more devastated,” President Trump said via social media on Sunday.
He confirmed that the National Guard has been deployed to Arkansas, one of the hardest-hit areas, and reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to supporting state and local officials during recovery efforts.
“My Administration is ready to assist State and Local Officials, as they help their communities to try and recover from the damage,” he added. “Please join Melania and me in praying for everyone impacted by these terrible storms!”
Scenes of Widespread Devastation
The high-end EF4 tornado in Diaz was one of several tornadoes reported during the multi-state outbreak. Emergency crews described scenes of utter devastation, with entire neighborhoods reduced to rubble. Eyewitnesses in Diaz reported the sky turning dark before the tornado touched down with incredible force, tearing through homes and structures in seconds.
Local officials have declared a state of emergency, and temporary shelters have been established for displaced residents. Power outages and communication disruptions continue to hamper rescue efforts.
Historic Storm Parallels 2014 Disaster
Meteorologists are already drawing comparisons between this outbreak and the deadly April 2014 outbreak, which also began with a powerful tornado in Arkansas. The Vilonia EF4 tornado, part of that historic event, was previously considered the state’s most destructive in recent history — a record now matched by the Diaz tornado’s estimated 190 mph winds.
Federal Aid and Recovery Efforts Underway
Calls for federal disaster declarations are growing as damage assessments continue. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is expected to issue updates on relief measures, with rescue teams, medical support units, and supplies being rushed to affected areas.
Authorities have urged residents to stay off damaged roads, follow local advisories, and report missing persons immediately. In many areas, cleanup and recovery are expected to take weeks, if not months.
Nation Unites in Grief and Support
Across the country, tributes and vigils are being held in memory of the victims. Communities are rallying together to support survivors and raise funds for rebuilding efforts.
The Sentinel Current will continue to monitor developments and provide ongoing coverage of this tragic and historic weather event.
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