EF2 tornado confirmed in McCracken County, Ky., leaving destruction and injuries

MCCRACKEN COUNTY, Ky., (KBSI) — The National Weather Service has confirmed an EF2 tornado touched down near the Gage community, causing significant damage and injuring four people.

The tornado moved northeast through McCracken County, damaging multiple homes and structures. Three of the injured suffered non-life-threatening injuries, while one remains in critical condition at an out-of-state hospital.

First responders and linemen swiftly responded to provide aid and restore power. Jackson Purchase Electric Company expects to fully restore power by 10 p.m. tonight.

Area churches have opened their basements as shelters, and the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet has closed Highway 286 to ensure safe and efficient recovery efforts.

Ballard County has declared a local state of emergency and is coordinating with state and federal partners for a swift recovery.