This is a compilation of work by WKMS during the immediate aftermath of the December 10th tornado outbreak that ravaged many communities in western Kentucky.
WKMS staff members jumped into action before first light on December 11. Assistant News Director Liam Niemeyer reported on a 4:00 a.m. CST news conference from Governor Andy Beshear.
Then many WKMS staff members traveled to the radio station around 7:00 a.m. CST to begin triage coverage on the air. Our staff found the studio operating on generator power and without any broadband and very spotty cellular service.
News Director Derek Operle, Asst. ND Liam Niemeyer and Student reporter Zacharie Lamb all arrived in the city of Mayfield, Kentucky around 7:30 a.m CST.
The included audio are selections of Saturday morning coverage by Liam Niemeyer aired on NPR's national newscasts, WKMS' live coverage including local reporting from Derek Operle and also reports from National Weather Service officials, Power Cooperative officials and Kentucky State Police.
Web Stories:
Zacharie Lamb -
One dead and residents without power in Fulton County
Murray State Campus left powerless, canceling Fall Commencement
Liam Niemeyer -
Beshear: More than 50 deaths likely from western Ky. tornado outbreak
Disbelief among the rubble: Mayfield community stunned by tornado’s destruction
Derek Operle -
'A very dire situation': Officials react in aftermath of deadly tornado system in west Kentucky
Graves County, Kentucky, facing devastation after severe storms