Western Ky Storms

On Dec. 10-11, Western Kentucky was ravaged by two destructive long-track tornadoes. The first — an EF4 — clipped the northwest corner of Christian County remained on the ground for more than 165 miles. Two and a half hours later, an EF-2 “took straight aim for the city of Pembroke” and South Christian County, where it caused significant property damage. Then, just weeks later on New Year’s Day, an EF-2 traveled for about a mile through downtown Hopkinsville.

Explore Hoptown Chronicle’s coverage in the days, weeks and months that followed — chronicling initial reports, resident reactions and ongoing recovery efforts.

Officials with the candle factory are contesting the violations, which carry fines totaling $40,000.
Mayfield candle factory feature
With ongoing recovery from destructive floods and tornadoes, politicians are emphasizing the importance of Kentuckians coming together.
woman stapling at camp graves home
In the past seven months, roughly $52 million in donated funds has gone to a variety of assistance programs.
Mayfield tornado damage
In the days after the December tornado outbreak, some impacted communities experienced looting of homes and businesses destroyed by the storms
tornado damage christian county
To date the Team Western Kentucky Tornado Relief Fund has received $52 million in donations; about $12 million will go to individuals.
Western-Kentucky-tornado-path
Along with presents for children, a $4.65 million check was presented to expand internet services in Fulton, Hickman, Graves and Carlisle counties.
Britainy-Beshear-tornado-toys
The funding comes from the Team Western Kentucky Tornado Relief Fund, which has received donations totaling more that $52 million dollars.
christian county corn feature
It's estimated that 3,200 acres were damaged in the north end of LBL around Lyon County and about 3,500 acres were damaged at the south end in Stewart County, Tennessee.
LBL tornado damage
Some Pembroke residents are still dislocated, including a few households have relocated to state-provided campers.
Pembroke drug store torando
There will be a variety of groups there to help those impacted by the tornado with things such as housing, insurance and loans.
Pembroke tornado damage
The funding is available to local governments, nonprofit or public utilities groups, state agencies or school districts.
Andy Beshear and Richard Heath