Kentucky tornado latest in growing trend of Southern twisters that risk ecological disaster

When a devastating tornado cut through Western Kentucky this month – the most destructive funnel in a series that struck the country’s heartland – it took the lives of at least 76 Kentuckians. 

Amidst the astonishing loss of life, a quieter accounting must also take place: the number of places where the tornado damaged sensitive facilities that store hazardous materials and wastes, threatening the environment and even survivors left to pick up the pieces.