DEVELOPING STORY: Extensive damage is being reported in Mayfield, Kentucky late Friday night as a swath of killer tornadoes tore through the western part of the state. The county courthouse and city hall suffered extensive damage.
The downtown area, as evidenced by photos below, looks like a war zone. Those who are able to walk safely are being urged to head to Fire Station House 1.
Gov. Andy Beshear declared a state of emergency just before midnight. Multiple agencies will be responding to “major” damage.
Kentucky State Police said no fatalities have been confirmed, but “loss of life is expected.” Authorities issued the following statement:
Kentucky State Police, Post 1 is currently responding to a severe tornado event that spreads across multiple counties across Western Kentucky. There is significant damage reported. While no fatalities have been confirmed at this time, loss of life is expected. Multiple agencies from across the purchase area are responding. Updates will follow.
Pray for West KY https://t.co/tBD8DJVtuP
— Jimmy Cauley (@cauley_jimmy) December 11, 2021
Terrible before and after picture of the Graves County courthouse in Mayfield after a catastrophic long track tornado hit Friday evening. @spann @NWSPaducah #kywx pic.twitter.com/YXlUXp4Vgx
— T.G. Shuck (@TGweather) December 11, 2021
Here’s another heartbreaking damage update from Mayfield. It is a dire situation there. #kywx pic.twitter.com/Beo3YcM3zO
— Kayla Moody (@KaylaMoody) December 11, 2021
Mayfield down town area. pic.twitter.com/rCMtbZaVbg
— carleyyy (@hippiepower_420) December 11, 2021