At least 22 people were killed by two tornadoes Sunday in Lee County, with the eyes of the nation turning to east Alabama.
WSFA is reporting that Sheriff Jay Jones advised the death toll could still rise, as first responders work diligently to respond to missing person reports and assess damaged areas. An eight-year-old girl has been confirmed as one of the victims in the Beauregard area.
Governor Kay Ivey extended her February 23 State of Emergency declaration to cover the entire state so all affected areas can receive immediate state assistance.
She, other Alabama elected officials and President Donald Trump took to social media Sunday to offer their respective support to everyone impacted by the devastating weather.
To the great people of Alabama and surrounding areas: Please be careful and safe. Tornadoes and storms were truly violent and more could be coming. To the families and friends of the victims, and to the injured, God bless you all!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 4, 2019
“Our hearts go out to those who lost their lives in the storms that hit Lee County today. Praying for their families & everyone whose homes or businesses were affected. Officials from [the Alabama Emergency Management Agency) & other agencies are quickly working to provide assistance,” Ivey tweeted.
To everyone impacted by the devastating tornadoes that struck Lee County and other parts of Alabama today, my thoughts and prayers go out to you during this difficult time. I am deeply saddened by the loss of life, and grateful to the first responders on the scene.
— Richard Shelby (@SenShelby) March 4, 2019
“Weather related tragedy has once again struck Alabama. Please keep these families, these communities and our first responders in your thoughts and prayers,” Sen. Doug Jones (D-AL) tweeted.
Please join me in sending our prayers to all of those affected by the horrific storms today. https://t.co/ZP3IiYkYyg
— Will Ainsworth (@willainsworthAL) March 4, 2019
Sean Ross is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @sean_yhn
