A series of powerful tornadoes swept through parts of Tennessee on Saturday, killing at least six people and injuring dozens more, according to officials.
The National Weather Service confirmed that at least four tornadoes touched down in the state, with the strongest one hitting the town of Carthage, about 50 miles east of Nashville. The tornado, rated EF-3 on the Enhanced Fujita scale, had winds of up to 165 mph and caused widespread damage to homes, businesses and vehicles.
Among the victims were a married couple who died when their mobile home was destroyed by the tornado, and a 7-year-old boy who was killed when a tree fell on his house, according to the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency. The agency said that at least 50 people were injured and taken to local hospitals, some with critical injuries.
Governor Bill Lee declared a state of emergency and activated the National Guard to assist with the recovery efforts. He also visited some of the affected areas and expressed his condolences to the families of the victims.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of life and the devastation caused by these tornadoes,” Lee said in a statement. “Our thoughts and prayers are with all those who have been impacted by this tragedy, and we are grateful for the first responders and volunteers who are working tirelessly to help the survivors.”
The governor also urged residents to stay alert and follow the instructions of local authorities, as more severe weather was expected in the region. The National Weather Service issued a tornado watch for parts of Tennessee, Kentucky, Alabama and Mississippi until Sunday evening, warning of possible hail, damaging winds and flash flooding.
In Clarksville, about 40 miles northwest of Nashville, another tornado caused significant damage to the downtown area, where several buildings collapsed and power lines were downed. The tornado also hit the campus of Austin Peay State University, where some students were trapped in their dormitories.
“This is devastating news and our hearts are broken for the families of those who lost loved ones,” Clarksville Mayor Joe Pitts said in a statement. “The City stands ready to help them in their time of grief.”
As Clarksville looked for survivors and possibly additional victims, the mayor declared a state of emergency Saturday night and enacted a 9 p.m. curfew.
Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee thanked state and local responders in a statement on X shortly after the storms Saturday night.
“Maria & I are praying for all Tennesseans who have been impacted by the tornadoes that swept through the state this evening,” he wrote. “We mourn the lives lost & ask that everyone continue to follow guidance from local & state officials.”
A global media for the latest news, entertainment, music fashion, and more.
