State Representative Paul Jacobs (IL) | Representative Paul Jacobs (R) 118th District
State Representative Paul Jacobs (IL) | Representative Paul Jacobs (R) 118th District
A tornado classified as an EF4 by the National Weather Service struck Williamson County on Friday night, with winds reaching up to 190 miles per hour. The classification was updated following evaluations by structural engineering experts.
Jacobs expressed relief that there were no fatalities and commended emergency management personnel and first responders for their swift action. "We are very thankful that there were no fatalities, and I applaud all of our EMA and first responders for their efforts to help residents and assess the damage," Jacobs stated. He also urged residents to register for the Williamson County emergency alert system, Hyper-Reach, for future updates.
The tornado's path began near Spillway Road and Grassy Road on May 16, intensified while moving eastward, and concluded near Mauseyville Road and Tyler Bridge Road. During its course, seven individuals sustained injuries.
The storm inflicted damage on homes close to the U.S. Penitentiary, Highway 37, and a subdivision east of Andrew Road. Notably, one house was completely displaced from its foundation. The National Weather Service reported that the tornado remained on the ground for 17 minutes and covered over 16 miles.
Further information can be accessed via KFVS 12 News.
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