Illinois Tornado: 16 Dead, Questions Raised Over Weather Service Funding

Devastating Tornado Strikes Marion, Illinois, Leaving Trail of Destruction and Raising Questions about Weather Service Funding A violent tornado tore through Marion, Illinois on May 16, 2025, causing widespread destruction and claiming the lives of at least 16 people. The storm, which hit between 6 PM and 7 PM CDT, left a path of devastation in its wake, destroying homes and causing significant structural damage across southern Marion. One resident, who chose to remain anonymous, described the scene as "terrifying." "I thought I was going to die," she said, recalling the intensity of the storm. Aerial footage shows homes reduced to rubble, with debris scattered across the landscape. The lack of timely warning before the tornado struck has raised concerns about the potential impact of defunding the National Weather Service. The incident underscores the urgent need for adequate funding to ensure effective weather monitoring and early warning systems to protect communities from such catastrophic events. GoFundMe campaigns have been set up to help the affected families rebuild their lives.