FRANKFORT, KY. (WKRN) – More than 50 people are dead from tornados that hit Western Kentucky overnight Friday into Saturday morning, Governor Andy Beshear confirmed.
Multiple counties were affected by the storms. One of the hardest-hit cities in Kentucky was Mayfield, Governor Beshear said in a press conference, describing the area as “devastated.”
Gov. Beshear will speak in Hopkins County at noon. Eyewitness News will be there and will update when we learn more.
A roof reportedly collapsed at a candle factory resulting in mass casualties. The governor stated that the death toll has exceeded 50 Kentuckians but will, “probably end up closer to 70-100 lost lives.”
181 national guardsmen have been deployed for search, extractions, and debris clearance.
Senator Mitch McConnell released the following statement:
“I am praying for the lives lost and communities impacted by the tornado devastation throughout the Commonwealth. Thank you to the first responders and the National Guard for their brave efforts amid this tragedy. As I continue to get reports from my staff, local and state officials, we will work with the entire Kentucky federal delegation to support Governor Andy Beshear’s request for federal assistance in order to aid these hard-hit communities with the funding and resources they need to rebuild.”
