So, late on May 16, a tornado suddenly ripped through Somerset, Kentucky — and honestly, it caught a lot of people off guard. It touched down just before 11 p.m., hitting areas along US Route 27, especially around Parkers Mill Road and Stoplight 22. The storm didn't last very long, but it caused some serious damage. People in Pulaski and parts of Laurel County were hit the hardest. It was loud, fast, and really scary for anyone nearby.
Local Spots and Homes Took a Big Hit
Some well-known places in town got damaged pretty badly. Baxter’s Coffee Shop — a spot a lot of locals love — was one of them. A nearby Lutheran church was also hit. It wasn’t just public places though. A lot of homes in the path of the storm were damaged or completely destroyed. Streets are still full of broken trees, roofing pieces, and all sorts of debris. It’s going to take some time to clean everything up.
No Official Word on Injuries Yet
There were early reports saying some people might have gotten hurt, but nothing official has come out yet. The authorities are being careful about what they confirm. Honestly, everyone’s just hoping that no one was seriously injured. Considering the size of the tornado and the damage, it’s pretty amazing if no one got badly hurt.
Firefighters and Rescue Teams Are on It
The Somerset Fire Department, along with other emergency crews, jumped into action fast. They’ve been out there since last night — searching homes, clearing roads, and trying to get power and water back up. It’s a huge task, but they’re moving quickly. You can see the effort they’re putting in, and honestly, they deserve a lot of credit.
What Residents Should Do Now
If you're in the area, the best thing you can do right now is stay away from the damaged spots. It might be tempting to go check things out or take pictures, but it actually slows down the emergency teams. They need space and time to work safely and fast. Also, some areas are still risky because of downed power lines and unstable buildings.
Photos and Videos Are Up Online
If you want to see just how bad things got, there’s drone footage and photos already posted by local news stations and the Somerset Fire Department on their social media. The images show roofs torn off, streets covered in debris, and buildings that are barely standing. It’s tough to look at, but it gives a clear idea of what the tornado did.
Keep Following Trusted Updates
This situation is still unfolding, so it’s important to keep an eye on official news sources or local government social media pages. That’s where you’ll find the latest info about road closures, recovery efforts, and safety tips. Things can change quickly after a storm like this, so staying updated is really important.
