¾ÅÓÎÌåÓý

WILLIAMSON COUNTY, Ill. (WSIL) -- The Williamson County Sheriff's Office recapped significant damage caused by a tornado on May 16, which hit south of Marion. The storm damage a wide path through Williamson County which stretched for more than a mile from Grassy Road at Wolf Creek Road to Saraville Road at Stonefort Road.

First responders from across the region quickly mobilized to help affected residents. This included first responders from Franklin, Jackson, Johnson, and Saline County Sheriff’s Offices which helped those in Williamson County respond to calls and assist citizens.

"Within minutes of the tornado touching down I began receiving calls from every county surrounding Williamson offering mutual aid," said Sheriff Jeff Diederich.

The sheriff's office stated the tornado destroyed or severely damaged many homes and structures and caused numerous injuries, ranging from minor to major. At this time, there are no deaths reported due to the storms.

A curfew was also enforced overnight to limit access to the damaged areas, though residents, emergency personnel and authorized individuals were exempt.

Williamson County Sheriff's Office deputies, with assistance from other agencies, said they maintained security and conducted patrols to prevent looting and criminal activity.

The Williamson County Sheriff's Office also expressed gratitude to various local law enforcement, fire departments, utility companies, and volunteers for their support in cleanup and recovery.