UPDATED: MARCH 3, 2012, 11:00 a.m.
More than 30 people have been killed after a violent string of storms hit Alabama, Indiana, Kentucky and Ohio, according to the Associated Press.
Tornadoes also ripped through several Midwestern states early Wednesday morning, causing damage to small towns in Illinois and Kansas, according to the Associated Press.
Strong winds roared through Branson, Mo., destroying some of the country music destination's iconic theaters.
Harrisburg, Ill., was struck by an EF4, the second highest rating, the AP reports.
USA Today reports that the storm outbreak has the potential to be the U.S.'s largest ever recorded in March, according to Weather Channel severe storm expert Greg Forbes.
Disaster relief agencies are mobilizing to provide aid across the nation's heartland. See how you can help below:
American Red Cross
Red Cross workers have opened shelters for displaced residents, providing meals for victims and first responders of the disaster.
Support relief efforts:
Donate online at redcross.org
Text RedCross to 90999 to make a $10 donation
Call 618-529-1525
Salvation Army
The relief organization is providing feeding sites, first responders and clean-up crews. It is not accepting in-kind donations at this time. Contribute to relief efforts:
--Text the word ARCH to 80888 to make a $10 donation
--Donate online at SalvationArmy.org
--Donate through the mail at The Salvation Army, PO Box 21787, St. Louis, MO 63109. Please designate the gift "Storm Relief."
--Call 1-800-SAL-ARMY
Team Rubicon
An organization that deploys veterans to help with disaster relief, Team Rubicon has sent three teams to Kansas, Missouri and Illinois. The group is clearing debris, assisting with security and making repairs where possible. Support Team Rubicon's response efforts here.
AmeriCares
The relief organization is sending a shipment of vaccines and medical supplies prepared to Harrisburg, Ill., and has partnered with more than three dozen clinics and health care organizations in the disaster-stricken states. Find ways to get involved here.
United Way of the Plains
Find volunteer opportunities and ways to help the small town of Harveyville, Kan. Support efforts and find options here.
Harrisburg Volunteer Hotline
Anyone wishing to volunteer with relief efforts should call 618-252-3732 and will be contacted as soon as possible.
Branson Volunteers
Anyone interested in volunteering or providing recovery assistance in the Branson area can find opportunities at volunteerbranson.org.
Feeding America
The hunger organization is calling for an increase in food donations to serve those in affected areas. Find local food banks here.
Architecture for Humanity
A grassroots network of building professionals, volunteers provide their services to areas of need post disaster. The organization accepts donations online.
Operation Blessing International
Operation Blessing has sent a convoy of relief vehicles, including a mobile food truck that provides more than 2,500 hot meals to victims of the recent tornadoes. The organization is also sending trailers full of tools to begin rebuilding. Find ways to become involved here.
Kentucky Emergency Management
As one of the few states that employs a full-time volunteer coordinator, Kentucky Emergency Management has already declared a need for statewide assistance in response to the recent tornadoes. To find out more about how to get involved, click here.
Related
Before You Go
