Severe storms batter KY overnight. See social media reactions
A night of violent storms has left at least 18 people dead and a path of damage in Southeastern Kentucky.
The number of deaths could grow as search and rescue operations continue Saturday. First responders reported at least one unconfirmed tornado touched down in Laurel County shortly before midnight, leaving multiple people dead.
A storm system that took shape in southeastern Missouri Friday afternoon gained power and leveled homes, businesses, airport hangars and at least one church as it roared into Kentucky near Paducah overnight and into the early hours of Saturday.
It wreaked havoc before crossing I-75 about 80 miles south of Lexington, with additional damage reported in the southeastern part of Kentucky in Laurel and Pulaski counties.
Here are some of the latest social media posts of the storm and damage.
This story was originally published May 17, 2025 at 9:13 AM.