2 dead as severe storms, tornadoes move through central US

COLE, Okla. (AP) — Strong storms including tornadoes, winds and hail have moved through parts of the central U.S., killing at least two people, causing injuries, destroying homes and leaving thousands without power. The National Weather Service began issuing tornado and severe thunderstorm warnings Wednesday evening (April 19, 2023) in Oklahoma, Kansas and Iowa, with forecasters warning people to find shelter. Central Oklahoma saw multiple tornadoes with two deaths and several injuries reported in the town of Cole in McClain County. A number of homes and other buildings were badly damaged or destroyed. At its peak, more than 23,000 customers were without electricity in the state. Storms this spring have spawned tornadoes in the South, Midwest and Northeast, killing dozens of people.