Published: May 14, 2008 11:36 am            

F1 twister hits Cumberland Falls

n Falling trees total several vehicles; park clean-up continuing

CUMBERLAND FALLS — It was a Mother’s Day to remember as a thunderstorm complete with twister caused plenty of property damage but thankfully no injuries Sunday morning on the McCreary-Whitley County line.

The tornado, categorized by the National Weather Service in Jackson as an EF-1 with winds just over 100 miles per hour, hit the area at approximately 9:15 a.m.

McCreary County emergency personnel received initial reports that people were injured at Cumberland Falls State Resort Park due to trees having fallen on the gift shop and at least one car. Responders from both McCreary and Whitley counties had difficulty reaching the area due to trees blocking KY 90, but were ultimately relieved to discover that reports of injuries were not true.

However the Department of Parks is reporting minor damage to cottages and several vehicles were totaled due to fallen trees. The cottages were not being used at press time because of power and phone outages, but the lodge and campground are open for business. The heaviest damage was to the park manager’s house at the park.

“This is one way to end a lovely weekend,” groused one Kingston, TN, visitor as he awaited permission to leave Dupont Lodge.

KY 90, the main road through the park, was closed from its intersection with KY 700 and didn’t re-open to traffic for several hours.

Park Manager Lisa Davis stated that the park’s gift shop, a snack shop, and trails remained closed Monday and the park restaurant is serving meals on a limited basis.

Kentucky State Police, McCreary County Sheriff’s Office, McCreary County EMS, Eagle-Sawyer Volunteer Fire Department and Kentucky Department of Highways were among the local responders who were on hand to assist in the storm’s aftermath.

Many emergency crews and volunteers responded Sunday to begin the clean up work, Davis added. “We really appreciate all the people who came out on Sunday and today to begin helping us,” she said.

Anyone wanting to make or check on reservations should call the park at 800-325-0063. The park phone has been working on an intermittent basis.

        

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