Our hearts go out to the dozens of families affected by Monday’s tragic tornadoes that ripped across the South.

At least 35 people were killed over two days of terrifying twisters. Perhaps most tragically, a Louisville childcare worker died as she clutched a child in her care, seeking to protect the 4-year-old from harm.

The young girl survived thanks to Ruth Bennett’s protective grasp, but for Bennett’s sacrifice she paid with her life.

Such severe weather tragedies are among the most devastating. They come with little warning and victims seem almost selected at random.

Tornadoes are truly baffling things.

Fortunately, through the work of a number of scientists — including some who have died in the process — our understanding of tornadoes and the ability to predict their likelihood is increasing daily.

A few seconds of advance warning may be enough to save lives in many, but not all cases.

Today, we pause to count our blessings — both that we were spared from the storms this time but also that we live in a world in which people like Ruth Bennett put their own lives in harm’s way to protect another.