[Asia Economy Reporter Yujin Cho] U.S. President Joe Biden has ordered the immediate deployment of federal resources to the central U.S. region where a powerful tornado swept through, causing at least 100 deaths.
On the 11th (local time), the White House announced that President Biden, while in Wilmington, Delaware, received a damage report from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator and the White House Homeland Security Advisor and gave the directive accordingly.
President Biden expressed condolences on Twitter, saying, "I have been briefed on the catastrophic tornado damage that struck the central U.S. this morning," and added, "Losing loved ones in such a storm is an unimaginable tragedy."
He also stated, "Search and rescue operations and damage assessments are ongoing, and we are working with governors to ensure they get what they need."
The White House identified that the tornado, which occurred the previous night, affected seven states including Kentucky, Arkansas, Tennessee, and Illinois.
Major foreign media outlets such as CNBC and ABC reported that 30 powerful tornadoes swept through the area, with over 100 deaths currently expected.
The White House said, "President Biden has ordered the immediate deployment of resources to the areas most in need to alleviate suffering from the storm's destructive consequences," and added, "Damage assessments are ongoing, and further briefings will be provided to the President."
FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell reported to President Biden on the scale of casualties and plans to swiftly deploy emergency responders and essential supplies including water.
President Biden held phone calls with governors of the affected areas, including Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, where the most casualties occurred, as well as Arkansas and others.
After expressing condolences during the call with Governor Beshear, President Biden instructed FEMA and other federal agencies to provide support to the affected areas as quickly as possible.
Governor Beshear held a press conference in Mayfield, Graves County, Kentucky, where the damage was concentrated, and declared a state of emergency. He said, "The death toll could exceed 100 before the day is over."
White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki posted on Twitter, saying, "The White House is closely monitoring the impact of the severe weather" and expressed sorrow over the significant damage.
He added, "We are in contact with state and local authorities as search and damage assessments continue, and will provide full federal support if necessary."
The White House announced that President Biden is scheduled to deliver a public address regarding the tornado damage later that afternoon.
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