When a deadly storm hit Mississippi Friday night, local weather forecasters paused their broadcasts to offer prayers for those lying in the wake of the tornado.
Matt Lauban, chief meteorologist for WTVA News, was warning citizens of Amory that a tornado had formed two miles outside of town when a new warning was issued, apparently due to weather forecasts. upset the master. “Oh dear, this is coming in from the north side of Amory,” he exclaimed as the screens behind him refreshed. When the screen changed again some time later, an overwhelmed Lauban leaned over his desk for a moment before praying, “Dear Jesus, help them.”
🚨#clock: Meteorologist Overwhelmed by Massive Tornado in Amory, Mississippi Live On Air from WTVA
📌#amory | | #Mississippi
⁰ Heartbreaking video shows meteorologists broadcast live on WTVA television. pic.twitter.com/ucaLXxSG8T…— RAWSALERTS (@rawsalerts) March 25, 2023
A deadly tornado that had already devastated the community of Rolling Fork nearly 200 miles away swept through the rest of the state and even reached Alabama during the storm on March 24. At least two of his deaths reported in Amory’s Monroe County, WTVA report.
Walker Ashley, a professor of meteorology at Northern Illinois University, said it was “the worst of its kind” for a nighttime storm. Said WTVA. Ashley added that Supercell’s storms, like this one, produce the “most deadly” tornadoes and most damaging hail in the United States. (Related: Los Angeles sees strongest tornado in 40 years)
Pictures showing the aftermath of the storm clearly Fallen trees and utility poles, and the complete disrepair of several buildings, including a gas station.
Corey Glenn, Mayor of Amory warned Residents boiled their water as the city’s water department was “hit” by a tornado. Glenn also notified residents that his two thoroughfares into town were closed and cautioned residents to stay away from downed power lines.
“Your prayers at this time are greatly appreciated,” he added.
At least 23 people have been killed in storms across Mississippi, with many more injured and missing.
