Twelve fatalities were reported in Missouri – the most of any state struck by the storm – from scattered twisters, thunderstorms and large hail that ravaged dozens of communities. “Homes and businesses have been destroyed, entire communities are without power and the road to recovery will not be easy,” Gov. Mike Kehoe said in a statement.

The Storm Prediction Center on Friday issued a rare level-five threat rating for central Alabama and Mississippi, the highest risk.