At least nine people have died due to powerful storms sweeping through the eastern U.S. Of these, eight fatalities were reported in Kentucky. The storm brought severe flooding, high winds, and downed trees, leading to widespread power outage

Fatalities in Kentucky and Georgia

In Kentucky, most victims drowned when floodwaters quickly trapped them in their vehicles. Tragically, among the dead was a mother and her child. As a result, Governor Andy Beshear warned that the number of deaths could rise. Meanwhile, in Georgia, a man was killed when an “extremely large” tree fell on his house in Atlanta early Sunday.

Emergency Response and Power Outrages

In response to the disaster, Governor Beshear declared a state of emergency. He also urged residents to avoid traveling on the roads. Within 24 hours, over 1,000 people were rescued by first responders. Additionally, more than 500,000 customers were without power from the South to New York, according to poweroutage.us.

Cold Weather Ahead

Looking ahead, extremely cold air is expected to move into the central U.S. later this week. The National Weather Service predicts temperatures could plummet to -60°F (-51°C) in the Plains near the Canadian border.