DAWSON SPRINGS, Ky. – A local community is helping those affected by Sunday night’s tornadoes.
The National Weather Service has issued a preliminary EF-3 rating for the tornado that struck Dawson Springs.
People in Mayfield are sending help because they went through the same recovery with Dawson Springs less than three years ago.
The Mayfield community is packing a trailer full of supplies to meet the immediate needs of Dawson Springs tornado survivors.
All electricity in the city was restored.
Now that the paths are much clearer, it’s about assessing the damage and getting survivors the help they need.
Jordan Madding, a survivor of the Mayfield tornado, is leading this effort in his hometown after seeing the damage firsthand.
“You can’t go 100 feet without downed trees. So there happened to be two road crews there at the time and so they were clearing the road, but we were building little paths to get to residents,” said Madding.
It’s what inspired Madding to give back.
He reflects on how the Mayfield community was supported after the December 2021 tornado.
He said he wanted to stand up for his neighbors.
“We had truckloads of supplies coming from all over the US, coming to Mayfield and pouring their hearts out. Now it looks like it’s Mayfield’s turn to show a little bit of heart,” Madding said.
Madding enlisted the help of his church, His House Ministries, and Pastor Stephen Boyken to spread the message.
Boyken said seeing Dawson Springs in need again brings back a lot of emotions.
“Our hearts ache for those who are hurting. It has been a difficult few days,” Boyken said.
Their first-hand experience with tornado recovery means they know exactly what Dawson Springs needs.
“We’ve learned a lot along the way. We don’t want to get in the way, and so we come up with a relief that will do the most good. That’s why we don’t accept clothing to get the It’s best to get it out there now,” Boyken said .
Madding hopes that when survivors receive this help, they can feel how much Mayfield cares about them.
“We just want them to know that we are here for you. We love you. This is what God wants us to do,” Madding said.
His House Ministries are also packing care packages on Wednesday.
These will be filled with things such as cuddly toys or toys to help meet the emotional needs of these people who have lost so much.
The National Weather Service could potentially upgrade the tornado from an EF-3 to an EF-4.
They should first consult experts to ensure the assessment is consistent.
