Officials in Jackson County are reporting some damage as severe weather rolled across the eastern part of Mississippi’s coastline on Sunday morning.
According to Mayor Casey Vaughn, a tornado was confirmed to have touched down in Gautier and caused “heavy damage” to the Glenmark Apartments, Riverbend Apartments, Aztecas Restaurant & Cantina, and fewer than 10 residential homes. Vaughn said no injuries have been reported at this time as city crews and partner agencies conduct damage assessments.
“City staff are working diligently to assess conditions, clear debris, and restore services as quickly as possible. We ask that residents avoid impacted areas to allow emergency personnel to work safely,” Vaughn said in a statement.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with all who were affected by this storm,” he continued. “Gautier is a strong community, and together, we will move forward in recovery and support of our neighbors.”
Aztecas posted on social media that no one was injured and the damage was to their location on US-90.
“Thank you to everyone who reached out with concern and support about the damage at Aztecas Gautier,” the chain wrote. “We’re grateful to share that no one was injured. All of our team members are safe. The damage was only material, and we’ll keep you updated as we work through it.”
The Gautier Police Department is urging residents to avoid downed power lines, stay clear of standing water, and report blocked roadways. According to Singing River Electric, power has been restored for its customers.
In neighboring Pascagoula, emergency management personnel reported tornado damage to homes on Catalina Street. No injuries have been reported there either.
