A destructive tornado ripped through Somerset, KY on May 17, 2025, damaging buildings severely and triggering emergency proclamations. The tornado occurred in the midst of a surge of intense storms sweeping the state.
Tornado Caught on Webcam at London-Corbin Airport
Only minutes after the Somerset tornado, a suspected second twister was seen in the area near London-Corbin Airport. The alleged twister was caught on the airport’s live webcam, but the feed went dark because of an outage. The twister can be seen advancing in the video moments before the loss of power.
Mass Casualty Event Declared in Somerset
Somerset was hit the hardest by the storm. Rumor has it, a mass casualty incident has been declared. Somerset Mall area was most affected. US27 has been closed between Bob Evans and Somerset Mall to facilitate rescue efforts.
Local Landmarks and Businesses Affected
Some landmarks and local businesses were damaged during the storm, including
- South End Speedway
- Lutheran Church
- Baxter’s Coffee
- Hardee’s (south)
- A local theater
Debris and destruction are prevalent in the southern area of the city.
Somerset Fire Department Asks People to Avoid the Area
The Somerset Fire Department put out urgent alerts on Facebook. One of the alerts stated:
“The south side of the city has been affected by a suspected tornado. Crews are responding to weather-related damage at the Stoplight 22 location as well as Parkers Mill Road.”
They also added:
“Stay out of the tornado damage area!!! Don’t come out to sightsee now, the additional traffic is creating issues for our rescue units!!!”
Tornado Watch for Three States in Effect
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued Tornado Watch 269, which is effective until 3:00 a.m. EDT Saturday for portions of:
- Kentucky: Boyd, Carter, Greenup, Lawrence
- Ohio: Athens, Gallia, Jackson, Lawrence, Meigs, Morgan, Perry, Vinton
- West Virginia: Lincoln, Logan, Mingo, Putnam, Cabell, Mason, Wayne
Cities under the surveillance include Somerset, Ashland, Athens, Logan, Huntington, and Point Pleasant, among others.
Extent of Damage Still Being Assessed
Though comprehensive assessments are yet to be made, images from the scene indicate:
- Collapsed buildings
- Uprooted trees
- Power lines down
- Blocked roads
Emergency responders are still assessing the region and setting up search and rescue operations.
Residents Told to Remain Indoors
Officials continue to remind citizens to remain indoors, minimize travel, and refrain from interfering with rescue efforts. Since weather threats persist, caution is paramount.
Somerset Community Starts on Road to Recovery
Somerset begins looking toward recovery and support now. Emergency responders are restoring power, clearing roads, and helping displaced residents. As cleanup efforts get underway, the community is still one in resilience and hope.
Conclusion
All in all, this tornado was the huge setback for Somerset and its people. Many damage was done, however Somerset are on their way of recover. As a citizen you must protect yourself and your family by following the protocols set by the authorities
Keep watching for further news on the Somerset tornado as news comes in.
