United States: more than 20 tornadoes in one day, significant damage across the country

Publishing Date: April 18, 2026 21:08

Reading time: 2min – Video: 2min

In the United States, a series of tornadoes has swept through the central part of the country, exacerbated by storms. Minnesota and Missouri have been particularly hard hit. Alerts remain in effect on Saturday, April 18.

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In Wisconsin (United States), an American is stunned to witness the birth of a tornado. “It’s just outside our homes. It’s approaching. We need to leave, it’s coming fast,” he comments on social media. A powerful and fast whirlwind sweeps everything in its path, from rooftops to vehicles, and even windows. In a matter of minutes, several neighborhoods are almost completely destroyed.

300 kilometers further south, the same phenomenon is observed. For example, a tree is uprooted by the force of the wind. The scene is filmed by a woman taking shelter in her garage.

On Friday, April 17, more than 20 tornadoes hit the central United States. Several American states have been affected. In Minnesota, the damage is striking. A retiree emerges unscathed but shaken. “I wanted to go downstairs, but I couldn’t. I heard a rumble and fell to my knees in the kitchen,” she recounts.

According to preliminary reports, there are only a few minor injuries. However, the property damage is significant, especially in Belton, Missouri, where several homes are now uninhabitable. “There is a lot of roof damage and some have been completely torn off. There are also damaged facades. Obviously, there is a lot of debris scattered everywhere,” describes Scott Lyons, chief of police of Belton.

April marks the beginning of tornado season in the United States.