Weather officials from the National Weather Service (NWS) office in Paducah have confirmed that a powerful tornado touched down in the southern portion of Williamson County on Friday, leaving behind a trail of destruction and at least seven reported injuries.
According to the NWS survey team, preliminary assessments indicate that the tornado was at least an EF3 on the Enhanced Fujita Scale, packing maximum wind speeds of 165 miles per hour.
The Williamson County Sheriff’s Office reported that the tornado carved a path more than a mile wide, beginning near Grassy Road at Wolf Creek Road on the western edge of the county and extending to Saraville Road at Stonefort Road on the eastern side.
Local authorities and emergency responders were on the scene to assist with recovery efforts and assess the full extent of the damage. The area is now focused on cleanup and support for those affected as further evaluations by weather officials continue.
Kentucky – At Least 14 Dead in Laurel County:
State officials report that at least 14 people have died, many in Laurel County, where a powerful tornado is suspected to have touched down
Laurel County authorities confirmed that nine of the state’s fatalities occurred in the southeastern part of the state after a tornado tore through residential neighborhoods. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear warned that the death toll is likely to rise as search and recovery efforts continue.
The National Weather Service has not officially confirmed the tornado, but says the damage pattern strongly suggests it. The storm’s path extended into the London Corbin Airport area just before midnight.
Emergency crews worked through the night, searching for survivors amid debris and collapsed structures. An emergency shelter was established at a local high school, and donations of food, clothing, and other supplies began pouring in.
St. Louis, MO – Five Dead, Widespread Damage:
In St. Louis, Mayor Cara Spencer reported that five people died, 38 were injured, and more than 5,000 homes were affected. Three individuals needed assistance after part of the Centennial Christian Church collapsed, according to the St. Louis Fire Department.
Weather service radar indicated a likely tornado touched down between 2:30 p.m. and 2:50 p.m. in Clayton, Missouri, in the St. Louis area. The apparent tornado touched down in the area of Forest Park, home to the St. Louis Zoo .
At the zoo, falling trees severely damaged the roof of a butterfly facility. Staff quickly corralled most of the butterflies, and a conservatory in suburban Chesterfield is now caring for the displaced creatures, according to a statement on social media.
Scott County, MO – Two Dead, Widespread Destruction:
A tornado also struck Scott County, about 130 miles south of St. Louis, killing two people, injuring several others, and destroying multiple homes. Emergency crews are continuing to assess the damage and provide aid to impacted residents.
Comments