Tornadoes have ravaged parts of the American South over the last two days, killing a total of 16 people and injuring dozens of others.
Powerful storms have moved across the Florida Panhandle into Alabama and Georgia, leaving nothing but devastation in their wake. In Georgia alone, 12 people have died. A handful of others died in Mississippi.
Governor Nathan Deal of Georgia has issued a state of emergency, while surrounding states have declared tornado watches over the weekend.
In a statement to his constituents, Gov. Deal advised Georgians to “exercise caution and vigilance” as weather conditions remain poor.
“The National Weather Service predicts a third wave of severe weather today, which may reach as far north as metro Atlanta. I urge all Georgians to exercise caution and vigilance in order to remain safe and prevent further loss of life or injuries,” Deal stated Sunday.
The natural disaster comes just days after President Donald Trump assumed the oath of office. As the newly elected president, he has promised federal support to storm-battered states.
“I want to start off by telling you I just spoke with Governor Nathan Deal of Georgia, great state, great people,” Trump explained. “Florida affected, Alabama affected by the tornadoes, and just expressed our sincere condolences for the lives taken.”
“So we’ll be helping out the state of Georgia,” he added after lamenting the lives lost from “vicious and powerful and strong” storms.