Tornado Outbreak Leaves Tens of Thousands Without Power in the South

Severe Storms Leave Tens of Thousands Without Power in Alabama and Tennessee Parts of Alabama and Tennessee are grappling with the aftermath of a devastating series of tornadoes that swept through the region on May 21, 2025. The National Weather Service confirmed nearly a dozen tornadoes across six states, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake. Tens of thousands of residents are without power, and some school districts have been forced to close. "Winds powerful enough here in Madison to rip off the garage door of this home," reported a CBS Mornings correspondent, pointing to a house with significant damage. "And check out all the bricks lying on the lawn here, really just ripped from the side of this house." The reporter highlighted the intensity of the storm, noting golf ball-sized hail and heavy rainfall. In Athens, Alabama, the storm knocked out power for at least 15,000 customers. City officials reported broken utility poles, toppled trees, and water gushing down roads. Meanwhile, in Tennessee, state troopers witnessed a tornado tear a roof off a factory in Jackson, thankfully without causing injuries. The widespread power outages and damage underscore the severity of the storms. The situation highlights the importance of preparedness and the need for swift recovery efforts to assist those affected by the severe weather.