Dozens dead in Kentucky: Biden raises tornado devastation

Wednesday, December 15, 2021

Dozens died in Kentucky
Biden takes a picture of tornado devastation

He came to hear: The US president visited people affected by devastating tornadoes in the particularly devastated town of Mayfield, Kentucky. He is overwhelmed by the devastation and promises long-term assistance to the residents.

After a devastating tornado in Kentucky with dozens of deaths, US President Joe Biden visited the disaster area. In the particularly affected city of Mayfield, Biden observed several damaged or destroyed homes and spoke to local residents on tour. He had come to listen and ensure that local officials received all possible help from the federal government. Biden promised the government would provide long-term aid.

The president was briefed on the spot by Governor Andy Beshear, Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Meyerkas and US Civil Protection Agency chief Dean Criswell about the status of the rescue operation and the extent of the destruction. Biden first flew over the disaster area in a helicopter to get an idea of ​​the situation from the air. In the afternoon (local time) he wanted to visit Dawson Springs, which was also badly affected. After this there is also a plan for a speech.

Thunderstorms wreaked havoc on Saturday night. More than 70 people were killed in the state of Kentucky alone, and dozens are still missing today. Governor Beshear called it “the worst tornado damage imaginable”.

Before his visit, Biden had emphasized that he did not travel to the region immediately after the disaster so as not to get in the way. “The devastation is overwhelming. I mean, there’s nothing left,” he said. Homes or businesses were simply “finished”. This type of tragedy will either bring people together or bring them down. “There are no red or blue tornadoes,” Biden said, referring to the party colors of Republicans and Democrats, according to the AP. In 2020, in conservative Kentucky, Trump received significantly more votes than Biden.

For the United States, it is the latest in a series of natural disasters. This year alone there have been several storms, floods and forest fires. Biden sees the accumulation and severity of disasters as a result of climate change, which he has made one of his top priorities.