Birmingham Area Hit By Tornadoes Thursday; Damage Reported

BIRMINGHAM, AL — Two tornadoes touched down in the Birmingham metro area Thursday, part of a system of severe weather in the state that killed at least five people in Calhoun County.

The weather system caused significant structural damage in the communities of Lee Branch, Eagle Point, Greystone and Dunavant in Shelby County and Clay, Pinson and Trussville in Jefferson County.

The Hoover Fire Department reported that it treated one person in Greystone for injuries and an ambulance was called to transport another person injured during the storm. The injuries are not thought to be life-threatening.

While some minor injuries were reported in Eagle Point, the main damage was to multiple homes in the community, including some that were completely destroyed.

The Shelby County tornado moved from Bibb County into Shelby County at about 45 mph, and triggered a tornado warning for Jefferson and St. Clair counties as well.

The Jefferson County tornado went through Roebuck into Clay, Pinson and Trussville, then into St. Clair County. No Injuries have been reported from that tornado as of Thursday night, but the Trussville Fire Department said at least 30 homes were damaged in the area.

As of Thursday night, 10,135 customers were without power in Jefferson County from the storms, and 6,894 customers in Shelby County lost power.

The Shelby County Sheriff's Office said the roadway near Highway 280 and the Eagle Point subdivision in Shelby County was blocked for hours due to storm debris and down power lines.

The Shelby County Sheriff's Office said no fatalities have been reported in Shelby County, but many residents have been displaced from their homes due to the damage caused by the storms.

"We are here to support all of our citizens and the many other Shelby County municipalities who were also severely impacted by the storms," Sheriff John Samaniego said. "In the aftermath of these storms, we have seen the best of Shelby County. Neighbors helping neighbors. Businesses and kind citizens reaching out with donations of food and supplies. We will continue to canvass the county throughout the night to provide assistance as needed."

The same tornado that ravaged north Shelby County also sped into Calhoun County and caused five fatalities.

"Significant and dangerous weather continues to impact portions of Alabama, and I urge all folks in the path of these tornadoes and storm systems to remain on high alert," Gov. Kay Ivey said. "Tragically, we are receiving reports of loss of life. I offer my sincerest prayers to all impacted. Unfortunately, the day is not over yet. Y’all, please stay safe and vigilant!"

This is a developing story.