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Today in History: Super Tuesday tornado outbreak claims 56 lives

2/5/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On February 5, 2008, the Super Tuesday Tornado Outbreak struck the Southern United States and the lower Ohio Valley, producing 87 tornadoes. This severe weather event coincided with primary elections in 24 states, leading to 56 fatalities and over $1 billion in damages, disrupting voting in several locations.

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Story summary

On February 5, 2008, the Super Tuesday Tornado Outbreak struck the Southern United States and the lower Ohio Valley, producing 87 tornadoes. This severe weather event coincided with primary elections in 24 states, leading to 56 fatalities and over $1 billion in damages, disrupting voting in several locations.