An EF3 tornado hit Kentucky on Friday, May 16, killing at least 19 people as of this morning—most of them in southeastern Laurel County, damaging hundreds of homes and vehicles, and leaving many homeless, according to an update from the governor’s office.
The fatalities include 17 people in Laurel County, one in Pulaski County, and one in Russell County. There are eight injured people at the University of Kentucky Hospital: two in critical condition, two in serious condition, and four in good condition.
Teams are continuing efforts to survey and document damage. More than 200 transportation crew members from Laurel, Pulaski, and the surrounding counties have been working to clean up the damage. This includes untangling power lines and resetting poles, removing debris, and helping to block and detour roads so power crews can restore service.
“I promise that we will be there for our people until every home and every life is rebuilt. And I want to thank all our heroic first responders for the work they’ve done over the past few days,” says Kentucky Governor Beshear. “This is another incredibly tough time for Kentucky. And it’s another reminder that life is short, and it’s our duty to be kind and do good. As always—we will get through this together.”
Another round of storms is expected Monday in parts of Kentucky, starting around 2 p.m. EDT in the west and reaching the eastern part of the commonwealth between 8 and 11 p.m. EDT. There is the risk of strong winds, hail and tornadoes, especially in the far west. With debris still on the ground, the incoming storms and high winds could create a dangerous mix of rain and flying debris.
Explore St. Louis confirms the city’s primary visitor attractions, restaurants, hotels, and convention venues remain open and operational, following the EF3 tornado that struck the region on Friday.
“St. Louis is resilient. As the entire community rallies to support those affected and mourn the loss of life, our city continues to move forward,” says Brad Dean, president and CEO of Explore St. Louis. “We stand with those impacted by the storm and know that the hardest-hit areas will take time to recover. While the recovery effort moves forward, the vast majority of the city’s tourism and hospitality ecosystem remains strong, open and eager to serve guests. By visiting St. Louis, you’re not just experiencing our vibrant culture, you’re playing a role in our recovery.”
