London recovers from 'mass casualty event' after tornado rips through region

Multiple fatalities and injuries were reported after a tornado hit Laurel and Pulaski Counties on Friday night.

At least nine deaths were reported in London, while another was reportedly in Pulaski County.  Kentucky State Police requested immediate assistance after the twister hit the area just before midnight Friday.

“We have numerous downed trees in our post area and require additional chainsaws to support our troopers and first responders in clearing roadways to provide aid to those in need,” Trooper Scottie Pennington of London Post 11 said.

The tornado touched down around 11:49 p.m., carving a destructive path through Laurel County. It traveled across Keavy Road, KY 1006, Old Whitley Road, and the London-Corbin Airport. 

Significant damage has been reported in the Sunshine Hills community, Levi Jackson Wilderness Road Park, and the Oaks of London subdivision. The London-Corbin Airport's live webcam captured the tornado moments before a power outage cut the feed 

Authorities have closed KY 363 near Wyan Pine Elementary until 2 p.m. Saturday to facilitate search and rescue operations in the impacted area. The Laurel County Sheriff's Office has declared the situation a "mass casualty event," with emergency crews continuing to search for survivors.

The post advised motorists to stay away from Ky 363 Keevy Road and the Sunshine Hills Subdivision area, which have been shut down until further notice, adding that access will not be permitted.

South Laurel High School has been established as a warming, first aid, and food station for victims and first responders. Donations of food, blankets, and other supplies are being accepted at South Laurel High School.

(Information was used from ChatGPT AI  to compile this story.)