These heartbreaking photos show the aftermath of the country's deadliest tornado, which tore through three states in 1925.

More Than 1,500 Tornadoes Verified in Indiana

Whenever the seasons change, severe weather is always a possibility.  Unfortunately for us, the Hoosier State is no stranger to severe weather, including strong winds and even tornadoes.  According to the Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS),  more than 1,500 tornadoes have been verified in Indiana since 1950.   These tornadoes have caused more than 5,000 injuries and 300 fatalities.

Tornadoes are violent, rotating cylinders that can have wind speeds in excess of 300 mph, be more than a mile wide and cover approximately 50 miles during destruction. Because tornadoes are one of the more common natural-disaster risks the state faces, it is imperative Hoosiers are prepared before one occurs. - Indiana Department of Homeland Security

The Deadliest Tornado in United States History

On March 18th, 1925, the deadliest tornado in the United States happened.  The tornado has been dubbed the Tri-State Tornado because it tore through parts of Missouri, Illinois, and Indiana.  The path of this F5 tornado left mass casualties and devastation in its wake.  According to Accuweather, this tornado tore through a 219-mile-long path, making it the longest path of a tornado in recorded history.  The Tri-State Tornado claimed the lives of 695 people.

Southern Indiana Devastation Captured in 100-Year-Old Photos

This year marks the 100th anniversary of the devastating Tri-State Tornado. Willard Public Library in Evansville has an incredible archive of historic photos, and with the 100th anniversary of the Tri-State Tornado happening this month, they shared a few photos of the aftermath in Posey County.

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The post shared by Willard Public Library says:

On March 18, 1925, the deadliest tornado in U.S. history tore through Missouri, Illinois, and Indiana. The F5 Tri-State Tornado reached winds of 300 mph, leaving a 219-mile path of destruction. Griffin, IN, seen in these images, was among the hardest-hit communities in Posey County. In total, 695 lives were lost, over 2,000 were injured, and 15,000 homes were destroyed. This #ThrowbackThursday, we remember the resilience of those who rebuilt after this devastating storm.

These photos are devastating and are a startling reminder of the power of these storms.

Please be sure to take a moment to be prepared for severe weather, and let's hope a tornado like this is never experienced by anyone again.  You can find severe weather preparedness information from the IDHS here.  See Willard Public Library's full post and more photos below.