Weather
Devastating Tornado Strikes Laurel County, Kentucky: At Least 10 Dead, Several Injured
LAUREL COUNTY, KY — A powerful and deadly tornado tore through southeastern Kentucky late Friday night, leaving widespread destruction in its wake and resulting in multiple fatalities.
As of early Saturday morning, the Laurel County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that nine people were killed in the county, with a tenth fatality reported in neighboring Pulaski County.
Dozens more have sustained serious injuries, and search-and-rescue operations are ongoing.
The tornado reportedly touched down at approximately 11:49 p.m., cutting a destructive path across Keavy Road, KY-1006, Old Whitley Road, and near the London-Corbin Airport.
Entire communities were left devastated as homes and businesses were reduced to rubble.
Sheriff John Root has declared the incident a “mass casualty event,” emphasizing that emergency services are continuing to search for survivors trapped in the debris.
First responders from across the region, including fire, EMS, and mutual aid partners, have converged on the area to support recovery efforts.
“Laurel County is experiencing one of its darkest nights,” Sheriff Root said. “We mourn for the lives tragically lost, and we stand with the families and community members whose lives have been forever changed.”
TORNADO PUMMELS LAUREL COUNTY
Several areas of Laurel County, including the Sunshine Hills area shown in this video, were struck by a tornado late Friday night. Multiple injuries have been reported. Ky. 363 is closed while the injured are evacuated and homes are searched. pic.twitter.com/nEeFkZBsso— News Channel3 Now (@newschannel3now) May 17, 2025
In an official statement, the sheriff’s office added:
“We lift up those lives who were tragically cut short by the fury of the tornado and those who have been injured. May the hands of our rescuers be strengthened, and may communities near and far be moved with compassion to offer their support.”
Laurel County is located in southeastern Kentucky, approximately 75 miles south of Lexington.
The tornado’s impact extended beyond the county line, with additional damage and fatalities reported in surrounding areas.
A press conference has been scheduled for 8:00 a.m. Saturday, where officials are expected to provide further updates on the death toll, injuries, and ongoing response efforts.
Residents are urged to stay clear of heavily damaged areas to allow emergency crews access and to report any missing persons or hazards to local authorities immediately.
This is a developing story.
NEW JERSEY – Torrential rainfall has triggered widespread flash flooding across northern New Jersey, leaving roadways submerged, traffic paralyzed, and numerous motorists stranded.
In response to the rapidly deteriorating conditions, Governor Phil Murphy declared a State of Emergency Monday evening at 7:33 p.m., urging residents to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel.
“Please stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel. Stay safe, New Jersey,” Murphy wrote in a statement released on social media.
The flash flooding has severely impacted several major roadways, including:
- Route 22: Entire sections of the highway were completely underwater, with numerous vehicles stalled in rising floodwaters. Emergency responders are on scene assisting trapped motorists.
- New Jersey Turnpike: Near Newark, both northbound and southbound lanes experienced heavy flooding, resulting in lane closures and significant traffic delays. Some areas of the Turnpike are reported to be completely impassable as water levels continue to rise.
Residents described scenes of devastation, with roads transformed into rivers and entire neighborhoods inundated. Video footage from affected areas shows cars partially submerged, and water rushing through intersections and parking lots.
Officials have issued a strong warning: “Turn Around, Don’t Drown.” Flash flooding remains an active threat as more rain is forecast throughout the evening and into Tuesday.
Emergency management teams across the state are working to coordinate response efforts, deploy high-water rescue vehicles, and mitigate further flooding.
Despite the swift response, public reaction has been mixed, with some residents criticizing the timing and preparedness of local and state agencies.
One social media user remarked, “Don’t bother calling FEMA, nobody will answer,” reflecting growing frustration over emergency response delays.
The duration of the State of Emergency remains unclear, but officials stress that residents should continue to monitor official alerts, follow emergency guidance, and contact 2-1-1 for shelter assistance if displaced.
If you are experiencing a flood-related emergency, contact local authorities immediately.
This is a developing situation. More updates will follow as the weather event continues to unfold.