News Summary
A powerful tornado struck Locust Grove, Georgia, causing extensive damage and multiple injuries. Classified as an upper-end EF2, the tornado left at least two individuals hospitalized, one in critical condition. With thirteen structures affected and severe destruction reported, community cleanup efforts are underway. Authorities caution residents to remain alert for potential future storms as they recover from this disaster.
Locust Grove, Georgia – A powerful tornado swept through Henry County on Thursday afternoon, causing significant damage and leaving several people injured. The tornado touched down just before 4:00 PM local time, approximately 40 miles southeast of Atlanta, striking particularly hard outside the city of Locust Grove.
The National Weather Service has classified the tornado as an upper-end EF2, with peak winds reaching 135 mph. It first touched down at around 3:32 PM, forming rapidly after a storm moved into the southern region of the county. Alarmingly, there were no prior tornado warnings issued for the area at that time.
In total, at least two individuals have been hospitalized due to injuries sustained during the storm, with one 18-year-old victim reported to be in critical condition. Among the injured is Tray Chaney, an actor known for his role in HBO’s “The Wire,” whose son remains in the Intensive Care Unit as a result of the incident.
Preliminary damage assessments revealed that at least 13 structures were affected by the tornado, with two homes experiencing severe destruction. Residents reported chaotic scenes, with many hearing the distinct sound of strong winds and observing flying debris as the tornado tore through the Laurel Creek neighborhood, lifting walls, siding, and roofing materials from homes.
Emergency teams began cleanup efforts immediately in the aftermath of the tornado, working alongside community members to address the widespread destruction. Local authorities are advising residents to document any property damage with photographs to aid in recovery efforts. A temporary shelter has been established at Bethlehem Elementary School for those who have been displaced.
The tornado was said to be on the ground for approximately 1.8 miles and lasted around five minutes. Reports indicated that the storm caused trees to fall across local roadways, including Interstate 75, complicating travel and rescue operations.
As cleanup continues, local residents are coming together to share their stories of survival during the storm, emphasizing a sense of community resilience in the face of adversity. One resident described taking cover and praying during the storm, illustrating the fear that many experienced as they witnessed the chaos unfolding outside their homes.
Following the tornado, the city of Locust Grove communicated with residents via social media, urging them to remain vigilant for possible future severe weather. Authorities have warned that additional storms may produce conditions similar to those that spawned the tornado, heightening concerns for the safety of the community.
The aftermath of the tornado has left visible scars on the community, with ongoing cleanup efforts serving as a reminder of the winds’ destructive power. Local officials continue to monitor the situation and provide necessary resources to assist residents in their recovery from this unexpected and severe weather event.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Severe Thunderstorms and Tornadoes Hit Georgia
Additional Resources
- Fox 5 Atlanta: Henry County Tornado Injures Teen
- Wikipedia: Tornado
- WSB TV: Tornado Touches Down in Henry County
- Google Search: Henry County Tornado
- 11 Alive: Radar Confirmed Tornado in Henry County
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tornado
- Atlanta News First: Destructive Henry County Tornado
- Google News: Henry County Tornado 2025
