My son who lives 40 miles away in Athens, Alabama endured an F3 twister that destroyed many homes and killed 4 people. Fortunately, he and his family and their home were not in the twister's path, and were unharmed.
Other areas were not as lucky. Totally 195 were killed, 1,000s were seriously injured, and several towns were literally wiped off the map. The major culprit was a 1/2 mile wide F4 tornado which traveled an record breaking 300+ miles and caused damage in 3 states before its fury was finally spent. However, within a 12-hour period it was estimated that over 100 tornadoes were spawned in the North Alabama area.
Today it is estimated that half a million people are still without power and in some areas it will not be restored for over a week.
The whole North Alabama area has been declared a disaster area, and a state of emergency has been placed.
Tomorrow President Obama is coming to look at the damage, and is expected to give massive funds to help rebuild the state.
This was an historic tragic event, breaking records in the damage, deaths, and strength of tornadoes which occurred.
I know one thing I hope I do not have to go through this mess again. Even though nobody in my family were hurt, I spent my afternoon worrying myself literally sick until both my sons called and said they were OK. My prayers go out to those who lost loved ones, and their homes. but, as it is said, "a home can be replaced, but loved ones cannot."
they were from our local TV station's website 
