2 tornadoes confirmed in Kentucky, storm system causes widespread damage

flatgap-ky-damage
flatgap-ky-damage

There have been two confirmed tornadoes in Kentucky as Gov. Andy Beshear issues a state of emergency declaration.

Tornadoes have been confirmed in Nelson and Anderson counties. Both twisters are so far categorized as EF-1s as storm surveyors continue to evaluate damage. The top wind speed of the Nelson County tornado was 95 miles per hour, while the National Weather Service determined the top wind speed of the Anderson County twister was 90 mph.

In Anderson County, several barns lost roofs and trees and power lines were leveled in the storm.

A possible tornado (or straight-line winds) in Jessamine County damaged nearly two dozen businesses Tuesday morning and flipped multiple cars, according to a report by the Herald-Leader.

Thousands of people in Kentucky remain without power and there is widespread damage throughout central and eastern Kentucky following storms that produced heavy rain, hail, lightning, and damaging winds.

In response, Beshear declared a state of emergency Tuesday afternoon.

“We have reports of substantial damage to a number of structures, and thankfully, as of right now, we are not aware of any fatalities,” Beshear said. “We need all Kentuckians to stay weather aware as we brace for more severe weather throughout the afternoon and evening.”

Grayson County, along with counties from northern Kentucky to south central Kentucky, is under a tornado watch until 9:00 p.m. Tuesday.

(Photo: Storm damage in Flatgap in Johnson County, courtesy of WYMT.com)

By Ken Howlett, News Director

Contact Ken at ken@k105.com