Tornado kills one, leaves thousands in the dark in Columbus

COLUMBUS, Miss. (WCBI)- 24 hours later there is still utter shock and raw emotions after a tornado tore through Columbus.

A family is mourning. Ashley Pounds, 41, of Tupelo died from injuries sustained in the tornado.

More than a dozen people were also injured.

As we are seeing things for the first time in the light, the scene last night was heartbreaking.

The Hunt Intermediate School is said to be a total loss.

The Sim Scott Community Center was damaged or destroyed when the twister barreled through.

The tornado hit around 5:18 p.m. Saturday.

Columbus Light & Water General Manager Todd Gales says around 4,700 people were without power after the twister hit.

As of Sunday, Mayor Robert Smith says around 700 people are still without power and could be until Tuesday. Mayor Smith says he hopes it’s sooner.

The American Red Cross is assisting.

Several volunteers from surrounding areas are helping with cleanup efforts, getting the power on, and feeding emergency personnel.

If you’re interested in helping with clean up efforts, call Renee Sanders at 662-570-9045.

Anyone who would like to make donations can call the Community Outreach at 662-364-1850.