Morgan County officials have confirmed that a tornado swept through the area on Thursday night, resulting in two fatalities and injuring three others in the Deer Lodge and Sunbright communities.

According to Aaron Evans, spokesperson for Morgan County Emergency Management, a mother and daughter lost their lives in the storm.

The three injured individuals sustained non-life-threatening injuries, and no additional fatalities are expected at this time.

Emergency crews from local, county, and state agencies continue to conduct search and rescue operations.

The Tennessee Highway Patrol has deployed at least 30 troopers to assist in response efforts.

Authorities have established an Emergency Operations Center at Wartburg Central High School to coordinate relief efforts.

The storm caused significant disruptions to power, phone, and internet services in the affected areas.

Officials are urging residents to stay away from impacted locations to allow emergency crews to work safely and efficiently.

In Sunbright, the severe weather prompted a temporary halt to a high school basketball game after a tornado warning was issued.

Players and spectators took shelter before the game resumed once the storm had passed.

The National Weather Service is expected to release its final damage assessment for Morgan County by 4 p.m. Friday.

Officials continue to assess the extent of the destruction and provide assistance to those affected.