NPR News: 05-07-2026 6AM EDT

Mississippi reels from overnight tornadoes that damaged more than 1,000 structures, trapping residents in wreckage. Rescuers face nighttime obstacles including debris-blocked roads and downed power lines, as described by Mississippi Emergency Management Agency's Scott Simmons, who emphasized coordinating with local agencies to deploy personnel. Tornado watches extend into Southern Alabama, Southwestern Georgia, and the Florida Panhandle this morning, signaling ongoing severe weather risks across the Southeast.

Alabama lawmakers advanced Republican-favoring congressional maps during a special session, following a U.S. Supreme Court ruling last week. The state House approved, on a party-line vote, previously drawn 2023 maps invalidated by federal courts for discriminating against Black voters. Protesters occupied a State House hallway in Montgomery, refusing to leave as the GOP caucus stated the move ensures a red Congress. NPR's Debbie Elliott reported from the scene, noting the session's aim to reshape the state's political power structure.