LAUREL COUNTY, Ky. (WKYT) – At least 20 people are dead after severe weather ripped through southern Kentucky late Friday evening.
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London Mayor Randall Weddle tells WKYT 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.
Gov. Andy Beshear went to Laurel County on Saturday to survey the damage. He held a press conference at 5 p.m. to give an update on the situation:
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.
A WKYT viewer sent us the video below of the tornado about five miles south of London, just past the Levi Jackson Park area:
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.
“Lives have been changed forever here tonight. This is a time we come together, and we pray for this community,” Weddle told WKYT. “I have never personally witnessed what I‘ve witnessed here tonight. There’s a lot of devastation.”
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 nine deaths in Laurel County, the sheriff says numerous others suffered severe injuries.
“We lift up those lives who were tragically cut short by the fury of the tornado and those who have been injured,” said Sheriff Root. “Strengthen the hands of rescuers and inspire compassion in the hearts of communities near and far to offer aid in support.”
Kentucky we are waking up to the news of multiple fatalities from last night’s storms. Please pray for those impacted. We will update as soon as we have more information. ^AB
— Governor Andy Beshear (@GovAndyBeshear) May 17, 2025
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.
We’re told 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, KSP 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 Gov. Beshear’s disaster declaration to be approved by President Donald Trump. People are urged not to apply for assistance yet because you’ll be automatically denied until it’s approved.
This is a developing story.
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