Storm chaser Ashton Lemley heard a faint meow while navigating debris in a tornado-ravaged Mississippi trailer park before dawn. At least three tornadoes had struck the southern part of the state, flattening homes and injuring a dozen people in Bogue Chitto.
Lemley, who has been chasing storms since 2010, dug through insulation from a collapsed wall to find the kitten between two wooden posts. He captured the moment on video, reassuring the animal: “We’ll get you cleaned up, baby. Don’t you worry.”
The kitten appeared uninjured. Lemley handed it to a volunteer from the United Cajun Navy, who dried it and took it to safety. Interest in adopting the kitten has been high if its owners are not found; some have suggested naming it Tornado. Lemley cannot adopt it himself as he is allergic to cats.
Scott Simmons of the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency said a dozen people were hurt at the trailer park, with most of the 24 homes flattened. National Weather Service meteorologist Daniel Lamb confirmed at least three tornadoes caused significant damage, with surveys ongoing for more.
Governor Tate Reeves posted “Pray for Mississippi,” noting state coordination. Debris closed Interstate 55 and many roads in Lincoln County, with at least 200 homes damaged there. Neighbouring Lamar County reported about 275 damaged homes.
