CORBIN, KY – A severe tornado warning has been issued for Corbin and Barbourville, Kentucky, as a rapidly intensifying supercell storm barrels through the region. The National Weather Service (NWS) has officially confirmed a dangerous area of rotation entering Downtown Corbin, with another developing circulation detected southwest of the city.

Emergency Alert: Take Cover Now

Residents in Corbin, Barbourville, Williamsburg, and surrounding areas must immediately seek shelter as the storm system continues its path toward densely populated regions. Tornado sirens are actively blaring across the affected zones, signaling an imminent threat. Authorities are urging people to move to the lowest floor of their homes, preferably in a basement or an interior room away from windows.

“This storm has the potential to produce a destructive tornado,” stated Meteorologist Hannah Richardson from the NWS Jackson, KY office. “Residents should take cover immediately and treat this as a life-threatening situation.”

Confirmed Tornadoes and Path of Destruction

Reports from storm chasers and radar scans indicate multiple confirmed tornado touchdowns in southeastern Kentucky. The largest and most dangerous storm cell is currently tracking northeast at 45 mph, moving through Whitley County and directly impacting Corbin, Barbourville, and northern Williamsburg.

Eyewitness reports have documented funnel clouds forming over downtown Corbin, with strong winds causing power outages and fallen trees across major roadways. The Kentucky Department of Transportation (KYDOT) has already received several reports of overturned vehicles and downed power lines near U.S. Highway 25E.

Current Storm Details and Impacted Areas

• Tornado Warning in Effect: Until 7:45 PM EST
• Affected Areas: Corbin, Barbourville, Williamsburg, Woodbine, Keavy, North Corbin, and surrounding communities
• Movement: Northeast at 45 mph
• Wind Speeds: Expected to exceed 100 mph
• Risk Level: High – Tornado, hail, and flash flooding possible

The Severe Storm Prediction Center (SPC) has upgraded southeastern Kentucky to a high-risk zone, meaning conditions remain favorable for additional tornado formations throughout the night. The Weather Prediction Center (WPC) warns of potential flash flooding, particularly in low-lying areas near creeks and rivers.

Residents Face Immediate Danger: Personal Accounts of the Chaos

Longtime Corbin resident Daniel Carter, who was home when the tornado sirens activated, described the frightening moments leading up to his evacuation.

“I was watching TV when my phone buzzed with an emergency alert. Within minutes, the wind outside turned ferocious,” Carter recalled. “I ran to my basement, and before I knew it, I could hear what sounded like a freight train. I just hope my house is still standing when I come back up.”

Another eyewitness, Megan Lewis of Barbourville, recounted the moment she spotted a dark, swirling cloud looming over her neighborhood.

“I could see debris flying in the air, and I knew we had to get inside fast,” she said. “My family and I huddled in our hallway. It was terrifying.”

Power Outages and Road Closures Widespread

The Corbin Electric Department reports that at least 10,000 residents are currently without power, and emergency repair crews are being dispatched to assess the damage.

Emergency officials have closed multiple roads due to downed power lines and debris, including:

• U.S. Highway 25E near Downtown Corbin
• Kentucky Route 92 in Barbourville
• Interstate 75 between exits 25 and 29

Emergency Shelters Opened for Displaced Residents

With homes and businesses suffering damage, local authorities have opened multiple emergency shelters for residents in need. Shelter locations include:

• Corbin Community Center (409 Master Street, Corbin, KY)
• Barbourville High School Gymnasium (129 Daniel Boone Drive, Barbourville, KY)
• First Baptist Church of Williamsburg (230 S 5th St, Williamsburg, KY)

Officials are encouraging displaced residents to check in at these locations for temporary housing, food, and medical assistance.

Ongoing Rescue and Relief Efforts

First responders, firefighters, and police are actively conducting search-and-rescue operations for anyone trapped or injured due to the storm’s impact. The Kentucky National Guard has been deployed to assist with emergency response, and Gov. Andy Beshear has pledged state resources to help affected areas recover.

“We are doing everything possible to ensure the safety of our residents,” said Corbin Mayor Suzie Razmus. “We ask that everyone stay indoors, avoid unnecessary travel, and listen to emergency updates.”

More Tornadoes Possible Overnight

Meteorologists warn that additional storms are developing west of Corbin, with conditions favorable for further tornado formations throughout the night.

“The storm system remains volatile,” said Chief Meteorologist Ryan Collins of Kentucky Weather Network. “We could see more tornadoes forming across Knox, Whitley, and Laurel counties as the night progresses.”

Emergency Contact Information and Final Warnings

Authorities urge residents to stay vigilant and keep updated with emergency alerts. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911.

For non-life-threatening emergencies, contact:

• Corbin Police Department: (606) 528-1122
• Knox County Emergency Management: (606) 546-1315
• Kentucky State Emergency Operations Center: (502) 607-1611

Final Thoughts: Stay Safe, Stay Alert

This remains a rapidly evolving situation, with authorities closely monitoring the storm’s path and impact. Residents should continue sheltering in place and stay tuned for further updates from the National Weather Service and local officials.

As rescue and recovery operations continue, the people of Corbin, Barbourville, and southeastern Kentucky are urged to remain strong and look out for their neighbors.

This is a developing story, and updates will follow as more details emerge.