DeKalb | Over 100 tornadoes struck the southeastern United States on Wednesday.

According to The Associated Press, more than 291 people were killed in the destruction spanning six states, but hitting primarily the Alabama area the hardest. President Barack Obama has declared a state of emergency in affected areas, which allows the federal government to provide aide.

NIU Staff Meteorologist Gilbert Sebenste said such a massive amount of storms was caused by a set of very specific weather conditions all happening simultaneously.

“This was caused by a strong southern jet stream and a cold front going the same way, with warm moist air ahead,” Sebenste said. “The wind shear caused storms to rotate immediately and create many tornadoes.”

According to the National Weather Service, the storms are expected to move north along the east coast.

Sebenste said such a large number of storms is unlikely for the DeKalb region, but doesn’t rule out the possibility. 

“Storms like this are always possible in the spring season,” Sebenste said.