Cleanup was underway Monday following a fierce storm system that produced hail, rain, high winds, and tornadoes across the southern United States over the weekend, resulting in the deaths of at least four individuals. Reports indicate that more than 30 tornadoes were confirmed, with teams responding to around 50 damage reports spanning from Texas to South Carolina, according to Mark Wiley, an emergency response specialist with the National Weather Service’s Southern Region Headquarters (VOA News).

The storm outbreak began on Saturday in Texas, primarily affecting the Houston area. By Monday, the National Weather Service had confirmed the existence of six tornadoes, including two classified as EF3, with peak winds reaching approximately 140 mph. "Some of the damage was pretty substantial, leveling homes and causing significant roof damage," commented Brian Kyle, lead forecaster with the National Weather Service in Houston.

In Montgomery County, Texas, at least 50 homes were reported to have sustained major damage, with about 30 completely destroyed, as cleanup crews continued their efforts from the weekend. Jason Smith, a local county official, noted that several hundred additional homes experienced minor or cosmetic damage.

Reports of fatalities were also reported in Mississippi and North Carolina. In Mississippi, an 18-year-old girl tragically lost her life when a tree fell on her home, while in Texas, a 48-year-old woman was killed by a similar incident. Additionally, a 70-year-old man in North Carolina died instantaneously when a tree landed on his vehicle while he was driving.

Athens, Alabama, also saw its share of destruction, where storm damage impacted the downtown area, causing havoc including a military helicopter being toppled from its display pole. Local officials described witnessing winds that seemed to roar, a harrowing description of the chaotic weather conditions. “I stepped out on my porch and I could hear it roar,” stated Holly Hollman, a city spokeswoman.

Although December is not typically known for such severe weather, experts explain that the warm temperatures from the Gulf of Mexico can combine with cold fronts, creating the necessary conditions for these storms. "You can still have the right ingredients that lead to these severe events even in the dead of winter," explained Peter Mullinax, meteorologist with the National Weather Services’ Weather Prediction Center.

Meanwhile, high winds in western Pennsylvania caused power outages early Monday morning, particularly affecting areas like Pittsburgh. Winds over 60 mph were recorded, leading to widespread disruptions.

As recovery operations continue, many regions are working tirelessly to restore order and assist those impacted by the recent storms. Crews remain engaged in extensive debris removal efforts across the southern region.

For more detailed information on the ongoing recovery efforts, visit AP News.