Piedmont, MO – A confirmed large and extremely dangerous tornado is on the ground in northwestern Wayne County, prompting an emergency tornado warning until 10:45 p.m. Friday. Residents in the path of this storm are urged to take cover immediately.
According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, KY, the tornado was observed near Garwood at 10:17 p.m., approximately nine miles west of Piedmont. The storm is moving northeast at 55 mph and poses a significant threat to homes, businesses, and infrastructure. Emergency management has confirmed earlier damage near Fremont in Carter County.
The tornado is expected to impact Piedmont around 10:25 p.m. and Sam A. Baker State Park by 10:30 p.m. The National Weather Service warns that flying debris could be deadly to those caught without shelter, with mobile homes likely to be destroyed and severe structural damage possible.
Residents in the affected areas should immediately seek shelter in a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Those in mobile homes or vehicles should move to the nearest substantial shelter and protect themselves from debris.
This is a particularly dangerous situation. Continue monitoring local weather updates for further developments and take all necessary precautions to stay safe.
