On Monday, Alabama Speaker of the House Nathaniel Ledbetter surveyed the extensive damage caused by a recent EF-3 tornado that touched down in parts of both Dekalb and Jackson Counties. The two storm systems reportedly destroyed several homes.

After the severe weather, approximately 5,800 people were reportedly without power. No fatalities were reported, but damage was extensive.

I spent today touring the aftermath of the tornado that hit DeKalb County last week. It’s heartbreaking to see my friends lose their homes, but we’re so blessed there were no fatalities. Neighbors help neighbors in our community – we will come back stronger from this. pic.twitter.com/nnNg9yKQ0z

— Nathaniel Ledbetter (@RepLedbetter) May 13, 2024

“We started our morning touring damage and visiting with families who lost their homes in DeKalb County and later did the same in Jackson County,” said Ledbetter. “After seeing the damage firsthand, it’s a miracle that no one lost their life. It’s heartbreaking to see people lose their homes, but those can always be rebuilt. To make it through something like this without any fatalities is such a blessing.”

According to the National Weather Service in Huntsville, the EF-3 tornado that made its way into Dekalb and Jackson Counties had top winds of 140 mph, a path length of over 12 miles, and a path width of 880 yards. The service also said that from May 8th through the early morning hours of May 9th, North Alabama experienced a total of 11 tornadoes.

Speaker Ledbetter said seeing the wreckage firsthand affirmed the bond shared by Alabamians in the community he calls home.

“This is a place where neighbors help neighbors during difficult times,” Ledbetter said. “Our community will rally behind those impacted and begin picking up the pieces and putting them back together.”

Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News.