A powerful storm system that tore across the United States in recent days is winding down Monday, but in its wake are devastated communities across states hit with violent tornadoes, wildfires and dust storms spun off by the massive system.

A series of storms that kicked up wildfires, tornadoes and dust while barreling across eight states over the weekend have left at least 42 people dead and dozens injured.

Meanwhile, the severe weather threat will linger through Sunday from Florida northward into the upper Ohio River Valley, forecasters warned.