Vatican City, Dec 13 –  Pope Francis sent a telegram of condolences for the victims of the last tornadoes in the United States that have left dozens of deaths and enormous devastation and thanked the rescuers for their work.

In the message transmitted, on behalf of the pontiff, by Secretary of State Pietro Parolin to the Archbishop of Los Angeles and president of the United States Episcopal Conference, José H. Gómez, he says he is “saddened to learn of the devastating impact of the tornadoes that they have plagued the central and southern United States in recent days. “

It offers “sincere prayers that Almighty God may grant eternal peace to those who have died, comfort to those who mourn their loss, and strength to all those affected by this terrible tragedy.”

He also appreciates “the tireless efforts of the first responders and all those involved in the care of the injured, the bereaved families and the homeless” and “invokes for all those who are committed in the great work of recovery and reconstruction the gifts of the Lord. of strength and generous perseverance in the service of his brothers “.

The most intense series of tornadoes in memory hit six US states early Saturday morning, leaving dozens of deaths and an unknown number of missing, in addition to a trail of devastation that has swept away entire populations and has caused countless damage.

The storm, which started late Friday, hit Arkansas, Illinois, Kentucky, Missouri, Mississippi and Tennessee hard, and according to the National Weather Service (NWS), there were reports of 37 tornadoes in different states.

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