Devin Johnson experienced a second devastating blow to his life when a tornado demolished his home during the Memorial Day weekend. Remarkably, this tragedy occurred on the exact same lot in Kentucky where he had previously been left homeless by another storm in 2021.
Johnson, who is only 21 years old, stood by and observed as workers skillfully used chain saws to carefully cut into the remains of the trailer that he once called home. This heartbreaking sight was unfortunately not new to Johnson’s family, as they have experienced similar devastating circumstances before.
In December 2021, a devastating tornado outbreak struck the Bluegrass State, claiming the lives of 81 people and destroying the former home of the family in the small community of Barnsley, located in western Kentucky.
Johnson expressed surprise, stating, “We never anticipated it happening again.”
He mentioned that amidst all the uncertainty as they embark on a new journey, there is one thing they have reached a decision on.
Johnson expressed his certainty about not returning to the place, emphasizing the multitude of memories associated with their losses.
On Sunday, Barnsley experienced the devastating impact of a strong tornado, with wind speeds reaching up to 165 mph (266 kph). The destructive path of this tornado stretched across approximately 36 miles (58 kilometers) in Kentucky, as reported by the National Weather Service.
Multiple rounds of severe storms swept through the region, and experts are currently assessing the extent of the damage caused by the tornadoes. Fortunately, another powerful storm narrowly missed the city of Mayfield, which is still recovering from a devastating tornado that hit the town last year.
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear has declared a state of emergency following the devastating storms that occurred on Sunday. Tragically, there have been five reported deaths throughout the state. Governor Beshear personally visited the affected areas in western Kentucky on Monday to assess the damage firsthand.
On Tuesday, Governor Beshear expressed his unwavering commitment to assisting in the reconstruction of every home and restoring every individual’s life. This promise, shared on the popular social media platform X, highlights the government’s determination to support those affected by the recent challenges.
The tornado that hit Barnsley wreaked havoc on the storm-weary community, causing significant damage. Among the destruction, Johnson’s trailer was mangled and thrown into a neighboring yard. Unfortunately, the Minton family also suffered from the storm’s wrath, with their roof damaged and one end of their trailer pushed off its foundation. Tragically, their home was completely destroyed by the 2021 storm.
“I have a knack for statistics and odds, and those numbers just don’t make sense,” Minton commented on Tuesday when discussing the fact that his family’s home was struck by lightning not once, but twice.
Uncertain about the extent of the damage this time around, he ponders the future. Following the 2021 storm, his family decided to remain in their current location. However, in light of the recent tornado that hit just a day after his daughter’s wedding, he isn’t quite sure what their next move will be. With a thriving lawn-care business and his youngest son approaching his senior year of high school, there are compelling reasons for him to consider staying in place.
“I’ve witnessed my fair share of storms,” Minton expressed. “However, witnessing the same area being struck twice in just two years, with almost pinpoint accuracy, makes it difficult to remain in the vicinity.”
During both instances, his family managed to evacuate to a safe location before the storms made landfall. Although his family is currently seeking refuge with relatives, he has taken it upon himself to stay at home during the nights in order to protect their property from potential looters.
Johnson’s family managed to escape just in time before the tornado struck on Sunday. They sought shelter with a relative in Madisonville, a nearby town. As they closely monitored the weather alerts, a sense of dread washed over them, knowing that the storm was heading straight towards Barnsley.
“We had that sinking feeling of losing everything all over again,” he expressed.
As he made his way back home, emergency vehicles raced by him. When he reached his neighborhood and turned the corner, he couldn’t believe what he saw – there was absolutely nothing left as he approached his family’s property.
In 2021, Johnson’s family sought shelter in their trailer during the storm. Without a basement, Johnson and his loved ones gathered in the kitchen, holding onto a table for dear life. Joining them were his grandparents, his sister, and her boyfriend. Meanwhile, his uncle and aunt took cover in the hallway, shielding themselves with a mattress.
“I could hear a deafening roar, and the whole house began to tremble,” he recounted. “The power started flickering, and then the windows shattered into pieces. Suddenly, a strong gust of wind and intense pressure engulfed the house. It felt as if something was pulling at me, attempting to drag me out.”
Fortunately, everyone escaped unharmed, despite the fact that the trailer was completely destroyed. Among the salvaged items were a cherished statue of Jesus and Mary, which had been in Johnson’s grandmother’s possession for many years. Additionally, they were able to recover some precious family mementos, including photographs.
Later in the day, they stumbled upon an engagement ring that had once belonged to his girlfriend’s grandmother.
When tragedy struck, his family had insurance both times. However, their situation remains just as dire as it was during the first incident.
“We are currently facing financial constraints,” Johnson revealed. “Therefore, our primary concern is determining our next course of action.”
He is currently staying at a motel in Madisonville, where he is receiving assistance from his relatives to cover the expenses.
They have decided to relocate to Madisonville, with the intention of establishing their own place. Since the 2021 storm, they have been saving money for this purpose. However, in the meantime, they will most likely reside with his grandparents. Johnson is employed at a warehouse in Madisonville, while his girlfriend works at a factory.
“It has been incredibly challenging ever since then, trying to manage all the bills we had to go through,” he expressed.
After witnessing the sheer power of tornadoes, he yearns for a home that is equipped with a basement.
“We are aware of the immense power they possess and how effortlessly they can snatch away one’s life,” he stated.
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