Storms Kills At Least 21 And Injures Many More

At least 21 people are dead after severe weather ripped through southern Kentucky late Friday evening.

London Mayor Randall Weddle said the number of confirmed deaths in just Laurel County is now up to at least 20. We also know that at least one death has been confirmed in neighboring Pulaski County.

The Laurel County Fire Department also reports a firefighter died Saturday morning after being injured while responding to storm damage.

In Laurel County, the tornado hit at approximately 11:49 p.m., traveling across Keavy Road, Kentucky 1006, Old Whitley Road, and the London Corbin Airport.

Laurel County Sheriff John Root says the search is continuing in the damaged area for survivors as emergency service personnel are in the damaged area assisting on the search. In addition to the 20 deaths in Laurel County, the sheriff says numerous others suffered severe injuries.

The storms were part of a severe weather system Friday that caused damage in Missouri, spawned tornadoes in Wisconsin, left thousands without power in the Great Lakes region, and brought a punishing heat wave to Texas.

According to Kentucky State Police, First Baptist Church at 804 W. Fifth Street in London will provide shelter to those affected by the tornado. The sheriff’s office says 20 cots are also available at the warming station at South Laurel High School gym. Also, personal hygiene items, diapers, blankets, and food are available.

South Laurel has reached the maximum number of donations for storm victims. They are asking people who still have donations to take them to the First Baptist Church.

People displaced by the storm and in need of housing can call 606-521-3119.

If you are missing a loved one, Kentucky State Police says you should go to Faith Assembly of God at 390 Faith Assembly Church Road to speak with a detective from the Kentucky State Police or the Laurel County Sheriff’s Office.

Those unable to travel can report missing persons to 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767), selecting option 4 when prompted.

State officials say they are still waiting on Governor Andy Beshear’s disaster declaration to be approved by President Donald Trump. People are urged not to apply for assistance yet because they will be automatically denied until it is approved.
Source: WAVE