Tornado Hits Basile, Injuries Reported

Fast-moving tornado brings destruction to small Louisiana town

Powerful storm leaves a trail of damage, including downed trees, power lines, and damaged homes

BASILE, La. (AP) — A tornado touched down in the small town of Basile, Louisiana, on Monday afternoon, causing widespread damage and injuries. The storm, which was part of a larger weather system that brought severe weather to the region, struck the town with little warning, leaving residents scrambling for safety.

According to the National Weather Service, the tornado was an EF-2, with winds reaching up to 120 miles per hour. The storm touched down just after 3 p.m., and quickly tore through the town, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake.

Numerous homes and businesses were damaged or destroyed, and trees and power lines were downed throughout the town. Several people were injured, but no fatalities have been reported.

"It was like a freight train coming through," said Basil Moreau, a resident of the town. "I've never seen anything like it in my life."

Emergency crews were quickly on the scene, and were working to clear debris and restore power. The Red Cross has also set up a shelter for those who have been displaced by the storm.

The tornado is the latest in a series of severe weather events that have hit the United States in recent weeks. Earlier this month, a tornado outbreak in the Midwest caused widespread damage and loss of life.

As the country enters the peak of tornado season, experts are urging residents to be prepared for the possibility of severe weather. The National Weather Service recommends that people have a plan in place for what to do if a tornado warning is issued, and to have a safe place to shelter.