Alabama Tornados and Severe Storms Cause Deaths of at Least 6 People
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Multiple tornadoes that hit Alabama’s central region on Thursday are believed to have caused at least six deaths.
NBC affiliate WSFA12 reported David Hill, interim Autauga Sheriff confirmed the fatalities Reporters were notified shortly after 6.00 p.m. on Thursday. Hill stated that there are more deaths possible due to reports of severe injuries and extensive damage to Old Kingston homes.
The Sheriff’s department confirmed that there had been “several fatalities.” on their Facebook page Thursday, but did not give the exact number.
The post added, “Please continue to pray about Autauga County.” “We had a severe tornado strike the County’s center and cause it to leave our Northeast corner into Elmore County. We ask for prayers for the families of those who lost their loved ones. Prayers for those who lost their homes and properties are needed. While we still have a long journey ahead of us, we can rebuild together if we work together. Stay Strong Autauga County!”
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Ernie Baggett from Autauga County EMA also reported several power lines being down in the vicinity. On Twitter, he said that the damage was extensive and included images of the destruction. He also stated that several mobile homes were lifted into the air by the storm, according to the Associated Press. They weren’t just blown away. He said that they were “blown a long distance”.
Search operations reportedly restarted at 6:30 a.m. on Friday morning after working throughout the night, reported AP.
“This evening we deployed the Mobile Command Trailer to aid responders in one area hit in Autauga County,” read a Chilton County EMA post on Thursday. It was heartbreaking to see the damage and those who have already lost so much. It was encouraging, however, that so many people from all walks stopped helping.
“Many volunteer firefighters departments, police officers of different agencies, and our Sheriff’s Office also sent resources in Autauga Elmore and Coosa counties,” the post said. “Throughout the whole process, Chilton County 911 kept us all in check and directed us in the right direction. “Thank you to all!”
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The National Weather Service, Huntsville, Alabama, confirmed Thursday that an EF-1 tornado had struck parts of Lawrence, Morgan and Limestone counties. path length of just over 30 milesAccording to the NWS Huntsville Twitter page, “
Later that evening, the service declared that the severe weather warning had ended. However, it still recommended caution due to the wind advisory that was in effect until 9:59 p.m. on the same day. This advisory included “gusty winds” of up to 30-40 MPH.
Also available via Twitter meteorologist James Spann Explained that, despite national media reports saying severe weather is rare in January, “tornado seasons” in Alabama run from November to May.
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Friday Chilton County EMA People affected by natural disasters in Alabama were addressed.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with those affected The tornadoes that devastated the country yesterday were devastating. Terra Scott, EMA director wrote on the organization’s Facebook page that she was so grateful for a community that is ready to help. “Thank you to all LE agencies, fire stations, forestry, Ema and volunteers who helped with search-and-rescue efforts.”
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Scott stated, “I would also like thank you to the Chilton County 911 employees for doing a great deal of communication with our responders. They also worked with other counties to coordinate getting them what they needed.” “Yesterday was tragic but the willingness to help by everyone was remarkable.”
Scott stated, “Please continue to keep those who have lost loved one’s and their homes within your thoughts and prayers,” Scott added.
Late Thursday, the National Weather Service reported that tornado damage had been reported in at most 14 Alabama counties and five Georgia county. This was in addition to the tens of thousand of people who were displaced by the storm. people reportedly without power In the combined two states.
A relief page The Alabama Tornado Relief Fund was established for those who were affected by Alabama’s severe weather. Central Alabama Community Foundation.
PEOPLE’s request was not immediately responded to by the Autauga County Sheriff’s Department.