Two large tornadoes hit the city of Selmer, Tennessee, on Thursday morning, according to reports.

Videos and pictures posted on social media showed significant damage and downed trees, making roads impassable. One account also reported that a gas station had been destroyed.

The Tennessee Highway Patrol said troopers were clearing roads and checking for stranded drivers.

Lightning strikes in Ashland City, Tennessee, on Wednesday. Lightning strikes in Ashland City, Tennessee, on Wednesday. George Walker IV/AP

The Context

The NWS has issued dozens of tornado warnings for parts of the South and Midwest, where violent storms wreaked havoc across multiple states on Wednesday.

Tornado and severe thunderstorm warnings are in effect for parts of Tennessee, Kentucky, West Virginia, Ohio and Pennsylvania on Thursday.

What To Know

The National Weather Service (NWS) warned that a third tornado could strike the city of Selmer of Thursday morning.

“Another tornado is heading directly north of Selmer, TN, in 40 minutes,” the NWS office in Memphis posted on X, formerly Twitter, around 2.30 a.m. local time. “This is an incredibly dangerous situation.”

It added later: “Initial tornado warned storm has passed. However, yet another storm is heading towards Selmer, TN. Remain vigilant.”

A tornado warning was in effect until 4.15 a.m. local time for McNairy County, where Selmer is located, and Hardin County.

The NWS warned that flying debris would be a risk for those not sheltering indoors.

“Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed. Damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles will occur. Tree damage is likely,” it said.

The Storm Prediction Center said on Facebook that active severe storms are expected from northeast Texas into parts of Arkansas, western Tennessee and northwestern Mississippi on Thursday.

“A few strong tornadoes and very large hail (up to 3 inch diameter) is possible with storms this afternoon into the evening,” the center said.

What People Are Saying

The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency wrote on X: “We are tracking Tornado Warnings issued in West and Middle Tennessee. If there is a warning issued for your area, seek shelter immediately.”

The Tennessee Highway Patrol wrote on X: “Troopers are on high alert for the possibility of severe storms and possible tornadic activity. Please monitor your local weather forecast and take precautions accordingly.”

What’s Next

Forecasts can change rapidly throughout the day and people in affected areas are advised to monitor local forecasts and updates.