Weather
Mass Casualty Incident Declared in Somerset After Large and Destructive Tornado
SOMERSET, KY — A mass casualty incident has been declared in Somerset, Kentucky, after a powerful tornado tore through the southern part of the city late Monday evening, causing widespread destruction and confirmed injuries.
Emergency officials have reported major tornado damage along South Highway 27, particularly near Stoplight 22 and Parkers Mill Road.
According to the Somerset Fire Department, the southern portion of the city bore the brunt of the storm.
First responders are actively working in the affected zones, conducting search-and-rescue operations and attending to injured residents.
Video footage shared by residents shows the immense scale of the destruction, including flattened buildings, overturned vehicles, and large debris fields.
Emergency crews described the scene as “chaotic,” with multiple structures leveled and communications hindered due to infrastructure damage.
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
The National Weather Service issued a Tornado Emergency for Pulaski County as the storm system produced multiple large and destructive tornadoes, one of which carved a path through Somerset.
Radar imagery revealed a well-defined debris ball, indicating a confirmed tornado with significant debris being lofted into the air.
The system was observed moving east toward London, Kentucky, with the potential to reach the area within 10 to 15 minutes from initial tracking.
- Multiple injuries have been confirmed, though the exact number has not yet been released.
- Rescue operations are ongoing, with mutual aid being requested from neighboring counties.
- Major infrastructure damage reported, including downed power lines, destroyed homes, and blocked roadways.
- Residents are being urged to stay off the roads and avoid affected areas to allow emergency crews unimpeded access.
Authorities are working to assess the full extent of the damage and are urging anyone with injuries or structural damage to contact 911.
More information will be released as rescue operations and damage assessments continue.
This is a developing situation. Stay tuned to official channels for updates, and take immediate shelter if you are in the path of this dangerous weather system.
At least three people have died and 12 others were injured after a powerful tornado tore through Union City, Michigan, on Friday, according to the Branch County Sheriff’s Office.
The storm caused widespread destruction as it moved through residential neighborhoods, leaving homes heavily damaged or destroyed and debris scattered across the community.
Emergency officials said three of the injured victims were transported to local hospitals for medical treatment, while others were treated for various injuries.
“Our thoughts are with those who have lost family, friends, and property during this incident,” the Branch County Sheriff’s Office said in a statement as emergency crews continued search, rescue, and recovery operations across the affected area.
Authorities are urging residents to avoid traveling to or through impacted neighborhoods so first responders can safely conduct emergency response efforts.
Deputies also warned the public to take several important safety precautions while recovery operations remain underway.
Residents are advised to:
- Stay away from damaged or unstable structures, including buildings marked by emergency personnel.
- Avoid downed power lines, fallen trees, and scattered debris, which may pose serious hazards.
- Refrain from entering restricted or closed areas where crews are actively working.
Officials also warned that additional severe weather could develop overnight Friday into Saturday, urging residents to remain weather-aware and seek shelter immediately if new warnings are issued.
Authorities encouraged the public to continue monitoring local forecasts and emergency alerts for updated information.
The storm has also caused power outages, road closures, and disruptions to cellular and internet service in some areas.
Emergency crews, utility workers, and local officials are currently working to assess the extent of the damage, restore essential services, and clear roadways.
Further updates are expected to be released as officials gather more information about the storm’s impact and ongoing recovery efforts.