Storms kill 20 across US including nine in ‘mass casualty event’ in Kentucky

Storms across the midwestern US caused significant loss of life, with over 20 fatalities reported in Missouri and Kentucky. In Kentucky's Laurel county, the death toll reached up to 23 due to severe injuries from a tornado that struck shortly before midnight. In Missouri, five confirmed deaths were reported in St Louis, including Patricia Penelton of the zoo who lost her life during the incident. The events included power outages, traffic gridlock, and a heatwave affecting Texas, with authorities encouraging residents to stay home. The governor and local officials are working to provide updates on injuries and recovery efforts.