Did alerts go out? What type of alerts did people receive? National Weather Service and others have said the Jackson office was staffed Friday night despite staffing shortages.

Areas in Laurel County that were impacted by a tornado late May 16 will be evacuated during the evening hours of May 20 ahead of more severe storms are set to move into the area, state and local officials announce during a news conference.

The FOX 56 Weather Authority said these storms have the potential for damaging wind gusts, large hail, and tornadoes.

Nine tornadoes struck Missouri and Kentucky on May 16, including a deadly EF3 in Scott County that killed two people and destroyed homes. The National Weather Service confirmed tornadoes up to EF4 strength.

Portions of southeast Missouri, southern Illinois and western Kentucky are under a tornado watch until 8 p.m. on May 20.

Residents in 49 Kentucky counties are urged to find alternate ways to receive severe weather alerts through Wednesday.

Southeastern Kentucky communities are mourning the losses of loved ones who were killed as tornadoes and heavy storms rushed through the region May 16.

Due to staffing shortages, the National Weather Service in Jackson no longer has overnight staff. But NWS and Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear say the office was staffed Friday night and early Saturday.

Survey teams were still working to assess damage into the evening Sunday, but officials said they have already documented severe damage near and west of the London-Corbin Airport.