Maine town buried under a foot of snow as nor’easter batters east coast

At least four people were killed after tornadoes and severe storms tore through several states this week.

Widespread thunderstorms rolled across the central and eastern US on Tuesday bringing tennis ball-sized hail, pounding rain and dangerous winds to at least 75 million people.

After lashing parts of Texas, Illinois and Oklahoma, the weather system moved from the northern parts of Indiana and Ohio and western Pennsylvania on its track east, with tornadoes touching down in Georgia, Ohio and Tennessee.

On Wednesday, two people were killed in Pennsylvania when the storm caused trees to fall on their cars, WPVI reported.

Meanwhile, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear confirmed that at least one victim was killed in the state – as the weather caused a car accident.

After two days of heavy rain, thunderstorms, hail, and tornadoes, the east-ward moving storm system has now hit the US east coast, with severe weather hammering Florida up through New England and the northern border states.

As of Thursday morning, 137,000 homes in Maine were without power after a powerful Nor’easter hammered the state.

Key Points

• Gorilla hail pounds cars on highways in Texas

• Level 4 warning for storms

• Storm forecast for Tuesday and Wednesday

• WATCH: Storms to roll through Central US over next two days

Welcome to The Independent’s live blog

Monday 1 April 2024 15:19 , Rachel Sharp

Follow updates as multiple US states face severe weather events

50 million Americans under storm threats

Monday 1 April 2024 15:21 , Rachel Sharp

More than 50 million Americans are currently facing the threat of severe storms on Easter Monday, with risks of tornadoes, flooding and snowstorms sweeping central and eastern US.

Thunderstorms are forecast to develop across the Fort Worth area of Texas on Monday afternoon through Monday night – some of which may be severe, according to the National Weather Service.

“Initial storms in western North Texas late this afternoon could be capable of very large hail and have slightly increased potential for tornadoes. Large hail and damaging winds will be the main threats,” the agency said.

The storms are expected to shift east on Tuesday, heading for the likes of Memphis, Tennessee, Washington DC and Baltimore.

Fort Worth faces risks of thunderstorms on Monday

Monday 1 April 2024 15:30 , Rachel Sharp

Scattered, severe storms expected across Fort Worth, Texas

Monday 1 April 2024 15:45 , Graig Graziosi

Storms with 40mph winds expected in Indiana

Monday 1 April 2024 16:29 , Graig Graziosi

South and Central Indiana may experience severe storms on Monday afternoon and evening.

The inclement weather is part of a broader system sweeping across the eastern portion of the country.

The National Weather Service in Indianapolis has predicted that lightning, large hail, and potentially damaging wind gusts are possible during the weather event. Isolated tornadoes, heavy rain, and subsequent flooding are also expected across substantial swaths of the state.

The NWS predicts that the storms are likely to start this afternoon in Indiana, with 40mph (63kmh) winds blowing in from the west.

Strong storms, up to an inch of rain expected in Arkansas-Red Basin River area as storms roll across the eastern US

Monday 1 April 2024 17:03 , Graig Graziosi

WATCH: Storms to roll through Central US over next two days

Monday 1 April 2024 17:33 , Graig Graziosi

Tornadoes, Tennis ball-sized hail possible in Oklahoma

Monday 1 April 2024 18:11 , Graig Graziosi

Severe weather covering the eastern US may bring strong tornadoes and tennis ball-sized hail to Oklahoma, according to local forecasts.

By Monday afternoon, KOCO 5 meteorologists determined there was an increased threat of tornado formation largely in east and northeastern portions of the state.

KOCO 5 Meteorologist Jonathan Conder said he believed the storms would hit in full around 6pm, and noted that he would not want his family driving around in storms of that severity.

Heavy, wet snow forecast for most of New Hampshire on Wednesday

Monday 1 April 2024 18:52 , Graig Graziosi

A storm system blowing across the eastern portion of the US will likely blanket New Hampshire with wet, heavy snow later this week, according to local meteorologists.

While the state will likely see clear weather today, clouds are expected to thicken on Tuesday before dumping snow on Wednesday and early Thursday. The remainder of Thursday is expected to bring a mix of rain and snow to the southern portions of the state.

WMUR metorologists said it was too early to predict how much snow might fall, but they did warn that gusty winds were likely and power outages would be possible as a result.

Heavy rain, thunderstorms and possible flooding and hail in Central Ohio

Monday 1 April 2024 19:46 , Graig Graziosi

A storm system moving across the eastern portion of the US may bring rain, flooding, hail and thunderstorms to Central Ohio this week.

Heavy rain and thunderstorms are expected to begin in the region today and into Tuesday morning. There will be a short dry period before more storms roll in later on Tuesday evening.

Flooding, lightining, and gusty winds with hail may begin to affect the region as early as Monday, according to NBC4 meteorologists. There will also be a low, but not zero, chance of tornadoes.

WATCH: Chicago weather: Rain, possible severe storms on the way

Monday 1 April 2024 20:23 , Graig Graziosi

WATCH: Severe weather to roar from Texas to Maryland

Monday 1 April 2024 20:53 , Graig Graziosi

Tornado watches issued for parts of Oklahoma

Monday 1 April 2024 21:30 , Graig Graziosi

A stormfront moving across the eastern US may spin up tornadoes in parts of Oklahoma, according to the National Weather Service in Tulsa.

The NWS issued tornado watches for Nowata, Osage, Washington, Crai, Rogers, Tulsa, Mayes, and Pawnee beginning at 3:13pm and lasting until 10:13pm tonight, local time.

Thunderstorms, possibly tornadoes forecast for northwest Arkansas

Monday 1 April 2024 22:00 , Graig Graziosi

The National Weather Service is forecasting severe thunderstorms with the potential for tornadoes in northwest Arkansas for Monday evening as a large storm system moves across the eastern US.

There is currently a 90 per cent change of severe thunderstorms beginning this evening for the region, with rain expected to continue until 10pm local time, according to the NWS.

Storms are expected to kickoff around 7pm local time and may bring hail and the potential for tornadoes. Most of the severe weather will subside by approximately 1am local time on Tuesday, the NWS reports.

50 million Americans under storm threats

Monday 1 April 2024 23:00 , Graig Graziosi

More than 50 million Americans are currently facing the threat of severe storms on Easter Monday, with risks of tornadoes, flooding and snowstorms sweeping central and eastern US.

Thunderstorms are forecast to develop across the Fort Worth area of Texas on Monday afternoon through Monday night – some of which may be severe, according to the National Weather Service.

“Initial storms in western North Texas late this afternoon could be capable of very large hail and have slightly increased potential for tornadoes. Large hail and damaging winds will be the main threats,” the agency said.

The storms are expected to shift east on Tuesday, heading for the likes of Memphis, Tennessee, Washington DC and Baltimore.

Scattered, severe storms expected across Fort Worth, Texas

Tuesday 2 April 2024 00:00 , Graig Graziosi

WATCH: Storms to roll through Central US over next two days

Tuesday 2 April 2024 01:00 , Graig Graziosi

Tornadoes, Tennis ball-sized hail possible in Oklahoma

Tuesday 2 April 2024 02:00 , Graig Graziosi

Severe weather covering the eastern US may bring strong tornadoes and tennis ball-sized hail to Oklahoma, according to local forecasts.

By Monday afternoon, KOCO 5 meteorologists determined there was an increased threat of tornado formation largely in east and northeastern portions of the state.

KOCO 5 Meteorologist Jonathan Conder said he believed the storms would hit in full around 6pm, and noted that he would not want his family driving around in storms of that severity.

Heavy, wet snow forecast for most of New Hampshire on Wednesday

Tuesday 2 April 2024 03:00 , Graig Graziosi

A storm system blowing across the eastern portion of the US will likely blanket New Hampshire with wet, heavy snow later this week, according to local meteorologists.

While the state will likely see clear weather today, clouds are expected to thicken on Tuesday before dumping snow on Wednesday and early Thursday. The remainder of Thursday is expected to bring a mix of rain and snow to the southern portions of the state.

WMUR metorologists said it was too early to predict how much snow might fall, but they did warn that gusty winds were likely and power outages would be possible as a result.

Heavy rain, thunderstorms and possible flooding and hail in Central Ohio

Tuesday 2 April 2024 04:00 , Graig Graziosi

A storm system moving across the eastern portion of the US may bring rain, flooding, hail and thunderstorms to Central Ohio this week.

Heavy rain and thunderstorms began in the region today and will continue into Tuesday morning. There will be a short dry period before more storms roll in later on Tuesday evening.

Flooding, lightining, and gusty winds with hail may begin to affect the region as early as Monday, according to NBC4 meteorologists. There will also be a low, but not zero, chance of tornadoes.

WATCH: Chicago weather: Rain, possible severe storms on the way

Tuesday 2 April 2024 04:59 , Graig Graziosi

Multiple people hurt in Texas crash amid severe storms

Tuesday 2 April 2024 05:30 , Stuti Mishra

Multiple people were hurt on Monday in a pileup involving as many as 30 vehicles at an intersection south of Midland, Texas, as high winds blew dust that was making visibility difficult, the Texas Department of Public Safety said.

Texas Highway Patrol Troopers and Upton County Emergency personnel responded to the crash along State Highway 349 around 4:50pm.

The National Weather Service had issued warnings about blowing dust and damaging winds for Monday afternoon in the area.

Motorists were urged to use caution when traveling in West Texas.

WATCH: Severe weather to roar from Texas to Maryland

Tuesday 2 April 2024 06:00 , Graig Graziosi

Watch: Satellite imagery shows atmospheric river moving into California

Tuesday 2 April 2024 06:30 , Stuti Mishra

A late-season atmospheric river that brought heavy rain to California can be seen entering the country over the weekend in this satellite footage shared by Cooperative Institute for Research in Atmosphere (CIRA).

The moisture from the river has moved inland and enhancing the severe weather threat over central US.

‘Strong tornadoes,’ large hail likely, thunderstorms expected across central Tennessee on Tuesday

Tuesday 2 April 2024 07:00 , Stuti Mishra

Three tornadoes in Oklahoma

Tuesday 2 April 2024 07:30 , Stuti Mishra

At least three tornadoes were reported in Oklahoma on Monday evening, according to AccuWeather.

More than eight million people in the Central United States were under tornado watches as a line of storms moved across the state.

Tornado warnings had been in effect for parts of Missouri, Oklahoma and Texas, and expired Monday night. Several warnings expired at midnight.

Severe storms likely Tuesday across much of the eastern US

Tuesday 2 April 2024 08:00 , Stuti Mishra

Severe thunderstorms will move across much of the eastern US on Tuesday, from the Gulf Coast through the Ohio Valley, according to National Weather Service forecasts.

In the midwest and Ohio Vallye Tuesday morning thunderstorms are likely but are expected to taper off early before giving way to more severe storms in the afternoon and evening.

Severe storms including tornadoes are likely Tuesday in much of Ohio as well as parts of West Virginia, Kentucky, and Indiana. Large, destructive hail and strong winds are also possible in the region, according to the NWS.

Storm damage in Tulsa

Tuesday 2 April 2024 08:30 , Stuti Mishra

Authorities reported storm damage northwest of Tulsa, Oklahoma, in the town of Barnsdall.

Houses, trees and power lines were damaged after a possible tornado hit the area, Osage County sheriff Eddie Virden told KOTV-TV in Tulsa.

Storm forecast for Tuesday and Wednesday

Tuesday 2 April 2024 09:00 , Stuti Mishra

The severe weather threat is intensifying from Tuesday and will extend into Wednesday, unleashing powerful tornadoes, damaging winds and hail as large as golf balls in some areas, forecasters say.

The weather system will extend from the northern parts of Indiana and Ohio and western Pennsylvania and move southward.

The risk for tornadoes extends from southeast Indiana across Ohio and over portions of Kentucky, West Virginia and Pennsylvania, the Storm Prediction Centre forecasts.

It will impact the central Gulf coast and eastward to the Chesapeake Bay region and part of the Delmarva Peninsula. Storms in this broad zone will pack strong wind gusts, hail and localised flash flooding.

Some hailstones could exceed 2 inches in diameter and destructive winds could reach speeds of up to 75mph, the centre said.

Storms are likely to reach their peak strength on Tuesday afternoon and evening but could persist overnight in some areas.

“On Wednesday, it appears the primary threat for severe thunderstorms will be for strong wind gusts, and that will be centred on a large portion of the mid-Atlantic coast,” AccuWeather Meteorologist Alyssa Glenny said.

Level 4 warning for storms

Tuesday 2 April 2024 09:36 , Stuti Mishra

Tuesday’s risk for severe storms was upgraded to Level 4 of 5 in much of Ohio and parts of Indiana, Kentucky and West Virginia, where a “substantial severe weather outbreak” is possible, according to the Storm Prediction Centre.

Gorilla hail pounds cars on highways in Texas

Tuesday 2 April 2024 10:50 , Stuti Mishra

Video posted by meteorologist Reed Timmer shows large hail making driving conditions risky in Texas.

“Gorilla hail northwest of DFW with supercell causing chaos on the highways near Justin, TX!” he wrote.

Photo: Texas sees hail size of golf balls

Tuesday 2 April 2024 11:50 , Stuti Mishra

Large hail fell in North Texas overnight with some stones as large as a golf ball or bigger, photos and videos show.

The National Weather Service had earlier warned that some hailstones could exceed 2 inches in diameter and destructive winds could reach speeds of up to 75 mph.

WATCH: Atlanta weather: Severe storm threat Tuesday

Tuesday 2 April 2024 12:30 , Stuti Mishra

Watch: Palm size hail in Texas

Tuesday 2 April 2024 13:00 , Graig Graziosi

Video shared by journalist Tiffany Liou shows hail the size of a palm falling in Texas.

“It started a pea size,” Ms Liou said in a video. “Then we got bigger ones, golf ball size.”“This one is huge,” she said, comparing with a coin.

50 million Americans under storm threats

Tuesday 2 April 2024 14:00 , Graig Graziosi

More than 50 million Americans are currently facing the threat of severe storms this week, with risks of tornadoes, flooding and snowstorms sweeping central and eastern US.

Thunderstorms and possible tornadoes were forecast to develop across much of the eastern US on Tuesday, from the Gulf Coast to the Ohio Valley according to the National Weather Service.

The storms, which began on Monday, are expected to shift east on Tuesday, heading for the likes of Memphis, Tennessee, Washington DC and Baltimore, as well as the midwest and Gulf region.

Severe thunderstorm warning in effect for parts of Kentucky, including Lexington

Tuesday 2 April 2024 14:36 , Graig Graziosi

Lexington, Richmond, and Nicholasville, Kentucky, are all under a severe thunderstorm warning until 10:15am this morning.

The storms are part of a broader weather system that began dumping rain — and in some places sizable hail — across much of the eastern half of the US.

WATCH: Rotating storms swirl over Missouri

Tuesday 2 April 2024 15:05 , Graig Graziosi

Storm footage shows severe thunderstorm with frequent lightning this morning in Indiana

Tuesday 2 April 2024 15:39 , Graig Graziosi

The storm system that began on Monday is moving across much of the eastern US today, bringing severe weather from the Gulf Coast to the midwest and the Ohio Valley.

Footage shared by WeatherNation on Twitter shows Bloomington, Indiana, as it was doused with rain during a thunderstorm earlier this morning. The constant crackling of thunder and rapid-fire flashes of lightning illustrate the severity of the storm.

Millions of Americans are under severe weather watches until later this evening as the storms continue to press across the nation.

WATCH: Severe storms arrive late to Oklahoma

Tuesday 2 April 2024 16:32 , Graig Graziosi

More than 14,000 customers without power in Memphis

Tuesday 2 April 2024 16:56 , Graig Graziosi

Severe storms moving across the US today have left 14,000 Memphis Light, Gas, and Water customers without power, according to the company.

The bulk of the power outages began around 9am local time, when high winds cut off power for 38,000 customers. Crews worked through the morning to restore power, but thousands are still awaiting reconnection.

The company did not provide an estimate for when power will be restored, but told local broadcaster WREG that it was working to reconnect customers as soon as possible.

New study shows tornados are increasing in southern US states

Tuesday 2 April 2024 17:28 , Graig Graziosi

A new study comparing tornado formation between 1984 and 2003 with tornado formation between 2004 and 2023 found that tornadoes are becoming more frequent. The study was conducted by Captain Experiences and drew on NOAA data.

Six of the top ten states to see tornado increases in the last 20 years — Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, Missouri, Kentucky, and Tennessee — were southern states.

It’s not bad news everywhere though; Nashville has reported a decrease in storms over the last 20 years.

Confirmed EF-1 tornado hits Kentucky

Tuesday 2 April 2024 17:47 , Graig Graziosi

An EF-1 tornado hit Kentucky earlier today, leaving some damaged buildings in its wake but thankfully no know injuries.

Joel Schipper, a local reporter with WDRB, shared images from Chaplin, Kentucky, where the tornado was spotted.

More than 75 million face severe weather threat

Tuesday 2 April 2024 18:07 , Graig Graziosi

More than 75 million people from the Gulf Coast to Great Lakes may experience extreme weather over the next 24 hours, according to CNN’s Weather Centre.

Thunderstorms, baseball-sized hail, 60-80mph winds, and tornadoes have either already hit or are predicted to hit much of the eastern US over the next 24 hours.

In addition to th 75 million Americans who may experience severe thunderstorms, another 17 million from Illinois to Maryland face possible flood threats.

An EF-1 tornado already touched down in Chaplin, Kentucky, where it damaged buildings. Thankfully no one was injured by the storm.

WATCH: Multi-day severe storm threat kicks off April

Tuesday 2 April 2024 18:36 , Graig Graziosi

Lexington, Kentucky mayor urges residents to be cautious as more storms likely to form

Tuesday 2 April 2024 18:56 , Graig Graziosi

The mayor of Lexington, Kentucky warned residents to keep their eye on the weather after the region was slammed by severe storms early Tuesday morning, causing “significant damage”. He noted that forecasts called for more storms later in the day.

“We suffered significant damage this morning, with trees down, roads blocked, and traffic signals out after a first wave of storms with high winds moved through our city,” Mayor Linda Gorton said, according to WKYT. “According to our forecasters, even more significant storms are possible this afternoon. Residents need to remain vigilant and stay indoors if possible.”

The mayor said damage reports were coming into the city all morning and at least one person had been injured in the early morning storms.

Approximately 9,500 power customers in the Lexington area were without power this morning due to the severe weather.

Warm front sets the stage for even more storms in Ohio, NWS says

Tuesday 2 April 2024 19:35 , Graig Graziosi

The National Weather Service in Cleveland said a warm front moving into northern Ohio will create conditions that may cause more storm development in the region.

The agency said there was an ehanced risk in place in the Cleveland area, with high winds, hail, and tornadoes a possibility.

Tornado watches in effect in five states

Tuesday 2 April 2024 19:56 , Graig Graziosi

Tornado watches have been issued for parts of Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Missouri, and Tennessee, according to the National Weather Service.

An EF-1 tornado touched down in Chaplin, Kentucky early on Tuesday and caused damage to buildings. Severe weather in Lexington left nearly 10,000 power customers in the dark and injured at least one person, according to the city’s mayor.

WATCH: Severe thunderstorms sweep across US Midwest in satellite imagery

Tuesday 2 April 2024 20:16 , Graig Graziosi

Severe storms forecast for central Florida, Tallahassee on Wednesday

Tuesday 2 April 2024 20:36 , Graig Graziosi

A storm system moving across the eastern half of the US may bring severe weather to central Florida on Wednesday, according to local meteorologists.

Some of the storms could produce small hail, damaging winds, and an isolated tornado risk, according to WFTV out of Orlando.

Tallahassee is also expected to see severe weather, including isolated rainstorms and potentially strong tornadoes, overnight as the system continues east.

“All threats are possible, so we could have damaging wind gusts, large hail, tornadoes — and some of the tornadoes could be strong,” Molly Merrifield, meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Tallahassee told the Tallahassee Democrat. “It actually looks like the storms could be strengthening as they push eastward through the area.”

Four tornadoes reported across Oklahoma, one person reported dead

Tuesday 2 April 2024 20:56 , Graig Graziosi

At least four tornadoes were reported in Oklahoma on Tuesday as severe weather swept across the eastern portion of the US.

A tornado warning was issued in the town of Okarche after a funnel was spotted by local authorities. High winds also damaged buildings and powerlines in Osage County.

At least three of the reported tornadoes were spotted in northeastern portions of the state.

At least one death was attributed to the storm; a 46-year-old unhoused woman was reported dead in Tulsa after she took shelter from the weather in a drainage pipe, according to Mercury News.

Firefighters in Ohio rescue two trapped under a bridge as river waters rose during sever storms

Tuesday 2 April 2024 21:21 , Graig Graziosi

Two people trapped under a bridge as river waters rose due to severe storms were rescued by firefighters on Tuesday.

Early on Tuesday morning two people were sleeping under a bridge when heavy rain in Columbus caused the Scioto River’s waters to rise, according to the Columbus Fire Department.

The flooding prevented the pair from returning to the shore, which prompted rescuers to rescue them using a boat.

The National Weather Service issued flood warnings on Tuesday, noting that the river is likely to flood by Wednesday morning as storms continue to batter the region.

Severe storms, which are continuing to move across the eastern US, may bring tornadoes and more flooding throughout Tuesday and into early Wednesday.

Photo: Texas sees hail size of golf balls

Tuesday 2 April 2024 22:00 , Graig Graziosi

Large hail fell in North Texas overnight with some stones as large as a golf ball or bigger, photos and videos show.

The National Weather Service had earlier warned that some hailstones could exceed 2 inches in diameter and destructive winds could reach speeds of up to 75 mph.

Severe storms predicted for Outer Banks on Wednesday

Tuesday 2 April 2024 23:00 , Graig Graziosi

The Outer Banks are expected to see showers and severe thunderstorms as a storm front moves in on Wednesday.

Several of the predicted storms could become severe, according to the NOAA.

The National Weather Services said the storms were most likely to occur in the late morning through the late afternoon, with the worst weather likely subsiding by 6pm.

Isolated large hail will be possible as will high winds.

WATCH: Rotating storms swirl over Missouri on Tuesday

Wednesday 3 April 2024 00:00 , Graig Graziosi

Storm footage shows severe thunderstorm with frequent lightning in Indiana on Tuesday

Wednesday 3 April 2024 01:00 , Graig Graziosi

The storm system that began on Monday swept across much of the eastern US on Tuesday, bringing severe weather from the Gulf Coast to the midwest and the Ohio Valley.

Footage shared by WeatherNation on Twitter shows Bloomington, Indiana, as it was doused with rain during a thunderstorm earlier this morning. The constant crackling of thunder and rapid-fire flashes of lightning illustrate the severity of the storm.

Millions of Americans are under severe weather watches until later this evening as the storms continue to press across the nation.

WATCH: Severe storms arrive late to Oklahoma on Tuesday

Wednesday 3 April 2024 02:00 , Graig Graziosi

New study shows tornados are increasing in southern US states

Wednesday 3 April 2024 03:00 , Graig Graziosi

A new study comparing tornado formation between 1984 and 2003 with tornado formation between 2004 and 2023 found that tornadoes are becoming more frequent. The study was conducted by Captain Experiences and drew on NOAA data.

Six of the top ten states to see tornado increases in the last 20 years — Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, Missouri, Kentucky, and Tennessee — were southern states.

It’s not bad news everywhere though; Nashville has reported a decrease in storms over the last 20 years.

WATCH: Tornado Touches Down In Central Oklahoma Amid Severe Weather on Tuesday

Wednesday 3 April 2024 04:00 , Graig Graziosi

More than 14,000 customers were without power in Memphis on Tuesday

Wednesday 3 April 2024 04:59 , Graig Graziosi

Severe storms moving across the US on Tuesday left 14,000 Memphis Light, Gas, and Water customers without power, according to the company.

The bulk of the power outages began around 9am local time on Tuesday, when high winds cut off power for 38,000 customers. Crews worked through the morning to restore power, but thousands are still awaiting reconnection.

Power crews worked throughout the day to restore power to the region.

Confirmed EF-1 tornado hits Kentucky on Tuesday

Wednesday 3 April 2024 06:00 , Graig Graziosi

An EF-1 tornado hit Kentucky early on Tuesday, leaving some damaged buildings in its wake but thankfully no know injuries.

Joel Schipper, a local reporter with WDRB, shared images from Chaplin, Kentucky, where the tornado was spotted.

Lexington, Kentucky mayor warned residents to be cautious as storms swept across the state

Wednesday 3 April 2024 08:00 , Graig Graziosi

The mayor of Lexington, Kentucky warned residents to keep their eye on the weather after the region was slammed by severe storms early Tuesday morning, causing “significant damage”. He noted that forecasts called for more storms later in the day.

“We suffered significant damage this morning, with trees down, roads blocked, and traffic signals out after a first wave of storms with high winds moved through our city,” Mayor Linda Gorton said, according to WKYT. “According to our forecasters, even more significant storms are possible this afternoon. Residents need to remain vigilant and stay indoors if possible.”

The mayor said damage reports were coming into the city all morning and at least one person had been injured in the early morning storms.

Approximately 9,500 power customers in the Lexington area were without power this morning due to the severe weather.

WATCH: Severe thunderstorms sweep across US Midwest on Tuesday

Wednesday 3 April 2024 10:00 , Graig Graziosi

Thousands without power in Ohio Valley as severe weather sweeps through

Wednesday 3 April 2024 11:53 , Rachel Sharp

Severe weather has left thousands of Americans without power in the Ohio Valley while millions in Georgia are now bracing for potential tornadoes.

Widespread thunderstorms rolled across the central and eastern US on Tuesday bringing tennis ball-sized hail, pounding rain and dangerous winds to at least 75 million people. Residents shared videos of cracked windshields and hail the size of a person’s palm.

After lashing parts of Texas, Illinois and Oklahoma, the weather system moved from the northern parts of Indiana and Ohio and western Pennsylvania on its track east.

On Tuesday night, tornadoes were then reported in Georgia, Ohio and Tennessee, according to the National Weather Service, while Tulsa police said that there had been one storm-related death.

In West Virginia, a state of emergency was declared for the counties of Fayette, Kanawha, Lincoln and Nicholas, with officials warning of downed trees, flooding and power outages.

Early on Wednesday morning, more than 100,000 homes were without power in West Virginia, while another 150,000 were also plunged into darkness across Ohio, Michigan, Wisconsin, Kentucky and Georgia, according to Poweroutage.us.

Warm front sets the stage for even more storms in Ohio, NWS says

Wednesday 3 April 2024 12:00 , Graig Graziosi

The National Weather Service in Cleveland said a warm front moving into northern Ohio will create conditions that may cause more storm development in the region which will likely begin to taper off on Wednesday.

The agency said there was an ehanced risk in place in the Cleveland area, with high winds, hail, and tornadoes a possibility.

Four tornadoes reported across Oklahoma, one person reported dead

Wednesday 3 April 2024 13:00 , Graig Graziosi

At least four tornadoes were reported in Oklahoma on Tuesday as severe weather swept across the eastern portion of the US.

A tornado warning was issued in the town of Okarche after a funnel was spotted by local authorities. High winds also damaged buildings and powerlines in Osage County.

At least three of the reported tornadoes were spotted in northeastern portions of the state.

At least one death was attributed to the storm; a 46-year-old unhoused woman was reported dead in Tulsa after she took shelter from the weather in a drainage pipe, according to Mercury News.

Severe storms predicted for Outer Banks on Wednesday

Wednesday 3 April 2024 14:00 , Graig Graziosi

The Outer Banks are expected to see showers and severe thunderstorms as a storm front moves in on Wednesday.

Several of the predicted storms could become severe, according to the NOAA.

The National Weather Services said the storms were most likely to occur in the late morning through the late afternoon, with the worst weather likely subsiding by 6pm.

Isolated large hail will be possible as will high winds.

WATCH: Orlando weather forecast: strong storms possible Wednesday

Wednesday 3 April 2024 14:30 , Graig Graziosi

Tornado ‘likely’ tore through Georgia city

Wednesday 3 April 2024 14:30 , Graig Graziosi

The National Weather Service said tornado “likely” tore through Conyers, a small city outside Atlanta where extreme winds damaged buildings and left residents without power overnight.

Trees and powerlines were toppled and high winds damaged homes in the city. Approximately 4,000 power customers were still without service as of 5am this morning.

There are no reports of injuries resulting from the tornado.

Georgia teen found in crushed car with toppled tree on his lap after likely tornado

Wednesday 3 April 2024 15:00 , Graig Graziosi

A teen in Georgia was found inside a crushed car in Conyers, Georgia — a city just outside Atlanta — after a likely tornado tore through the city.

Police told local broadcaster 11Alive that a teen boy was in his car when strong winds toppled a tree, which they said smashed through the car and essentially landed in the boy’s lap.

The teen thankfully was not injured and was rescued by police.

WATCH: Severe Storms Lash Atlanta Metro And Northern Georgia

Wednesday 3 April 2024 15:20 , Graig Graziosi

Buffalo under flood watch

Wednesday 3 April 2024 15:40 , Graig Graziosi

The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch for Buffalo until Thursday afternoon.

One to 1.5 inches of rain are likley, and flooding may occur in areas with poor drainage, according to the NWS. Severe weather in northern New York is expected to clear up on Thursday afternoon.

Rains will continue, however, and may turn to snow, just in time to make roads slick for travelers visiting the city to see the solar eclipse on Monday.

“Widespread rain [Wednesday] will change to wet snow tonight, first across higher terrain and last across lower elevations. Periods of wet snow will then continue through Saturday morning. The greatest accumulations are expected across higher terrain, with much of the snow coming Thursday night through Friday morning. There may be enough accumulation to result in slippery travel,” the NWS reported.

WATCH: Crews cleaning up after storms in Rockdale County

Wednesday 3 April 2024 16:00 , Graig Graziosi

An image from a possible tornado in Tennessee

Wednesday 3 April 2024 16:20 , Graig Graziosi

A building in Sunbright, Tennessee was damaged after what was likely a tornado ripped through the area on Tuesday.

The severe storm currently dumping rain and spinning up tornadoes on the east coast brought the same to the midwest and the Gulf region on Tuesday.

WATCH: Severe Storms Leave Damage In Nicholasville, KY, USA 2

Wednesday 3 April 2024 16:45 , Graig Graziosi

Winter storm alerts — including a blizzard warning — for Great Lakes region

Wednesday 3 April 2024 17:21 , Graig Graziosi

While thunderstorms and potential tornadoes hammer the southeast, winter storm alerts have been issued for states in the northeast, according to the Weather Channel.

The National Weather Service has issued winter weather advisories from the western and northern Great Lakes across upstate New York and into New England. Parts of Michigan’s Upper Penninsula were even placed under a blizzard warning on Wednesday.

Snow has already blanketed as far west as South Dakota. Last night in Wisconsin, more than 8 inches fell near La Crosse.

Severe storms produced hurricane-force winds in Missouri on Monday

Wednesday 3 April 2024 17:51 , Graig Graziosi

The severe storms moving across the US reportedly produced hurricane-force winds near Carthage, Missouri, on Monday, according to the National Weather Service.

“NWS storm survey found straight line winds causing roof damage to businesses in downtown Carthage. Power poles were also broken and trees were snapped. Peak winds were estimated to be 100mph,” the agency said in an X/Twitter post.

The extreme winds damaged buildings in the city’s central square on Monday.

WATCH: Severe Storms Leave Damage In Kentucky

Wednesday 3 April 2024 18:36 , Graig Graziosi

10 people injured in Indiana town during severe storms on Tuesday

Wednesday 3 April 2024 19:23 , Graig Graziosi

Severe storms injured at least 10 people in Jeffersonville, Indiana on Tuesday.

High winds tore the roof off homes and tossed debris around the town, which is just north of Louisville, according to WLKY.

At least one person, a 46-year-old homeless woman in Oklahoma, was killed by severe weather on Tuesday after the storm drain where she was seeking shelter flooded.

High winds topple tree, crush a car in New York City

Wednesday 3 April 2024 20:10 , Graig Graziosi

Severe storms producing high winds toppled a tree in New York City, which fell and crushed a car.

The incident happened on 102nd Street in Manhattan’s Upper West Side.

No one was injured, according to police.

The National Weather Service in New York warned residents that a major storm would blow in with potentially damaging winds and possible flooding on Wednesday.

The Rockaway route of the NYC ferry closed on Wednesday due to the storms.

Heavy snow and high winds are forecast for the region on Thursday when a nor’easter hits the area.

WATCH: First look at damage in Conyers, Georgia after tornado rips through region

Wednesday 3 April 2024 20:38 , Graig Graziosi

Tornado warning, possible water spouts in parts of Maryland and Chesapeake Bay

Wednesday 3 April 2024 21:19 , Graig Graziosi

The National Weather Service has issued a tornado warning for Scotland, Maryland until 4:45pm.

A Special Marine Warning including the Chesapeake Bay from Drum Point MD to Smith Point VA and Tangier Sound and the inland waters surrounding Bloodsworth Island has also been issued and will last until 5:30 PM. Hail, strong winds, and possible water spouts are possible in the affected portions of the bay.

WATCH: Snow hits northern Chicago suburbs hard

Wednesday 3 April 2024 22:02 , Graig Graziosi

Tornado ‘likely’ tore through Georgia city

Wednesday 3 April 2024 23:00 , Graig Graziosi

The National Weather Service said tornado “likely” tore through Conyers, a small city outside Atlanta where extreme winds damaged buildings and left residents without power overnight.

Trees and powerlines were toppled and high winds damaged homes in the city. Approximately 4,000 power customers were still without service as of 5am this morning.

There are no reports of injuries resulting from the tornado.

Georgia teen found in crushed car with toppled tree on his lap after likely tornado

Thursday 4 April 2024 00:00 , Graig Graziosi

A teen in Georgia was found inside a crushed car in Conyers, Georgia — a city just outside Atlanta — after a likely tornado tore through the city.

Police told local broadcaster 11Alive that a teen boy was in his car when strong winds toppled a tree, which they said smashed through the car and essentially landed in the boy’s lap.

The teen thankfully was not injured and was rescued by police.

WATCH: Severe Storms Lash Atlanta Metro And Northern Georgia

01:00 , Graig Graziosi

Buffalo under flood watch

02:00 , Graig Graziosi

The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch for Buffalo until Thursday afternoon.

One to 1.5 inches of rain are likley, and flooding may occur in areas with poor drainage, according to the NWS. Severe weather in northern New York is expected to clear up on Thursday afternoon.

Rains will continue, however, and may turn to snow, just in time to make roads slick for travelers visiting the city to see the solar eclipse on Monday.

“Widespread rain [Wednesday] will change to wet snow tonight, first across higher terrain and last across lower elevations. Periods of wet snow will then continue through Saturday morning. The greatest accumulations are expected across higher terrain, with much of the snow coming Thursday night through Friday morning. There may be enough accumulation to result in slippery travel,” the NWS reported.

WATCH: Crews cleaning up after storms in Rockdale County

03:00 , Graig Graziosi

Images following a possible tornado in Tennessee

04:00 , Graig Graziosi

A building in Sunbright, Tennessee was damaged after what was likely a tornado ripped through the area on Tuesday.

The severe storm currently dumping rain and spinning up tornadoes on the east coast brought the same to the midwest and the Gulf region on Tuesday.

WATCH: Severe Storms Leave Damage In Nicholasville, KY, USA

04:59 , Graig Graziosi

Winter storm alerts — including a blizzard warning — for Great Lakes region

06:00 , Graig Graziosi

While thunderstorms and potential tornadoes hammer the southeast, winter storm alerts have been issued for states in the northeast, according to the Weather Channel.

The National Weather Service has issued winter weather advisories from the western and northern Great Lakes across upstate New York and into New England. Parts of Michigan’s Upper Penninsula were even placed under a blizzard warning on Wednesday.

Snow has already blanketed as far west as South Dakota. Last night in Wisconsin, more than 8 inches fell near La Crosse.

Severe storms produced hurricane-force winds in Missouri on Monday

08:00 , Graig Graziosi

The severe storms moving across the US reportedly produced hurricane-force winds near Carthage, Missouri, on Monday, according to the National Weather Service.

“NWS storm survey found straight line winds causing roof damage to businesses in downtown Carthage. Power poles were also broken and trees were snapped. Peak winds were estimated to be 100mph,” the agency said in an X/Twitter post.

The extreme winds damaged buildings in the city’s central square on Monday.

WATCH: Severe Storms Leave Damage In Kentucky

10:00 , Graig Graziosi

At least three killed in storms

11:47 , Rachel Sharp

At least three people were killed as tornadoes and severe storms tore through several states this week.

On Wednesday, two people were killed in Pennsylvania when the storm caused trees to fall on their cars, WPVI reported.

Meanwhile, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear confirmed that at least one victim was killed in the state – as the weather caused a car accident.

10 people injured in Indiana town during severe storms on Tuesday

12:00 , Graig Graziosi

Severe storms injured at least 10 people in Jeffersonville, Indiana on Tuesday.

High winds tore the roof off homes and tossed debris around the town, which is just north of Louisville, according to WLKY.

At least one person, a 46-year-old homeless woman in Oklahoma, was killed by severe weather on Tuesday after the storm drain where she was seeking shelter flooded.

High winds topple tree, crush a car in New York City

14:00 , Graig Graziosi

Severe storms producing high winds toppled a tree in New York City, which fell and crushed a car.

The incident happened on 102nd Street in Manhattan’s Upper West Side.

No one was injured, according to police.

The National Weather Service in New York warned residents that a major storm would blow in with potentially damaging winds and possible flooding on Wednesday.

The Rockaway route of the NYC ferry closed on Wednesday due to the storms.

Heavy snow and high winds are forecast for the region on Thursday when a nor’easter hits the area.

WATCH: Footage of damage in Conyers, Georgia after tornado rips through region

14:30 , Graig Graziosi

WATCH: Snow hits northern Chicago suburbs hard

15:00 , Graig Graziosi

New England town sees more than a foot of snow

15:29 , Graig Graziosi

The town of Porter, Maine, received 12.2 inches of snow after a nor’easter blew in over the northeast and New England.

Locals woke up to the blanketing after the storm raged overnight.

Madison, New Hampshire, received 11.3 inches of snow.

Winter storms are expected to continue in the region on Thursday. Between six and 12 inches of snow — on top of the snow that fell overnight — is expected in the area.

WATCH: Northeast US drenched by rain and snow

16:02 , Graig Graziosi

More than 500,000 still without power in New England

16:43 , Graig Graziosi

More than 500,000 power customers in New England are still waiting to have their lights turned back on after a powerful nor’easter dropped inches of snow on the region overnight.

The wet, heavy snow and 60+mph winds disrupted power infrastructure primarily in Maine, New Hampshire and Massachusetts, though lesser outages were reported Connecticut, Vermont, and Rhode Island.

Maine was hit the hardest, with just over 300,000 customers still in the dark. New Hampshire and Boston followed, with approximately 175,000 and 22,000 customers without power, respectively.

Another six to 12 inches of snow are forecast for parts of New England for Thursday, making it likely more outages are on the way.

Click here to read the full blog on The Independent's website