National Guard activated in tornado-struck Arkansas as death toll rises
President Donald Trump has authorized the activation of the National Guard in tornado-struck Arkansas after a series of tornadoes and heavy winds ripped through multiple states over the weekend, leaving at least 37 dead.
Destructive winds tore through the Heartland on Saturday, posing a threat to states including Missouri, Mississippi, Kansas, Arkansas, Texas, and Oklahoma. The tornadoes caused significant damage to buildings and homes, while blizzard warnings were issued for northern states such as South Dakota and Minnesota.
In a post on X, President Trump expressed his concern over the severe storms and tornadoes that have affected many states in the South and Midwest, resulting in the loss of 36 innocent lives and widespread devastation. He announced the deployment of the National Guard to Arkansas and assured state and local officials of his administration’s readiness to assist in the recovery efforts. The President also requested prayers for those affected by the storms.
The National Guard in Arkansas tweeted that its officers will be providing security and humanitarian assistance to the affected communities in central and eastern Arkansas.
Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders reported that there were approximately 50 National Guardsmen and 40 state police on the ground in Arkansas. She expressed her pride in witnessing the community coming together to support one another during this challenging time.
Missouri resident Dakota Henderson, who helped rescue neighbors trapped beneath the rubble, described the devastation as “disturbing” and expressed his condolences for the casualties.
Evacuations were ordered in various areas of Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri, and New Mexico. In addition to tornadoes, strong winds also caused wildfires in the Southern Plains. Severe storms and tornadoes were anticipated in eastern Louisiana, western Georgia, central Tennessee, western North Carolina and South Carolina, as well as the western Florida Panhandle.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), under the Trump administration, is now facing scrutiny and staff firings in a “political bias” scandal, according to a GOP lawmaker.
As the affected communities begin the process of recovery, the support and assistance provided by local authorities, the National Guard, and the Trump administration will be crucial in rebuilding and restoring stability.
