Pakistan, May 18 -- A powerful wave of spring storms swept through the U.S. Midwest and Ohio River Valley overnight, leaving a trail of destruction and claiming at least 25 lives across Kentucky and Missouri. The deadly tornadoes caused significant damage to homes, vehicles, and infrastructure, prompting emergency declarations in both states.

In Kentucky, a powerful twister struck Laurel County just after midnight, killing 17 people and severely injuring many others, Governor Andy Beshear confirmed. The storm also claimed another life in nearby Pulaski County. Beshear described the aftermath as another painful moment for the state and declared a state of emergency to mobilize resources for affected communities.

Emergency officials in La...