Several communities in the Port St. Lucie area experienced the direct impact of tornadoes overnight, as confirmed by the city manager. Among the affected areas was a senior mobile home retirement community, where significant damage was reported. First responders are actively engaged in search and rescue operations as needed, addressing various challenges such as downed traffic lights, damaged homes, fallen trees, power outages, and flooded roads.
The emergency crews are facing a high volume of calls from residents while contending with strong winds reaching up to 50 mph. Despite the adverse weather conditions, efforts are ongoing to assess the extent of the damage caused by the tornadoes. Authorities have indicated that a more comprehensive evaluation will be possible once daylight arrives.
Tragically, St. Lucie County Sheriff Keith Pearson has confirmed the occurrence of fatalities following a tornado that tore through a mobile home retirement community in the county. The situation remains dynamic as emergency services continue to respond to the aftermath of the severe weather event.