St. Johns County Sheriff Rob Hardwick provided an update on the aftermath of a tornado that hit the Trailmark neighborhood in St. Johns County, Florida. The tornado tore through the area near World Golf Village on Thursday morning, causing significant damage to properties.

Alert and Response

• Prompt Warning: The tornado warning was received between 11:30 and 11:40 a.m., with Action News Jax First Alert Meteorologist Corey Simma tracking the tornado live on air.
• Tornado Touchdown: Video footage captured by a neighbor around 11:40 a.m. depicted the tornado near CH Arnold Road, confirming Sheriff Hardwick’s statement about the tornado touching down in the area.

Path and Intensity

• Direction and Distance: Sheriff Hardwick revealed that the tornado traveled southeast for approximately 2.5 miles, impacting the Trailmark neighborhood.
• Assessment Ongoing: National Weather Service Jacksonville is assessing the damage to ascertain the tornado’s strength and trajectory.

Damage Assessment

• Observations: St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office and St. Johns County Fire Rescue have noted damage to roofs, fences, shingles, and windows in Trailmark.
• County Response: The County’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) is evaluating the damage, with the County’s Damage Assessment Team scheduled to begin assessments on Friday.

Injury and Displacement

• Casualties: Only one injury has been reported thus far, with the individual self-transporting to the hospital. Fortunately, the injuries are non-life-threatening.
• Displacement: Authorities have not yet determined the number of individuals displaced from their homes due to the tornado.

Safety Measures

• Night Patrol: St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office will maintain marked patrol cars in the area throughout the night to ensure safety.
• Restricted Access: Authorities advise against unnecessary travel to Trailmark or surrounding areas for those not residing there, emphasizing safety concerns.

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In the wake of the destructive tornado, St. Johns County residents are urged to prioritize safety and adhere to guidance from local authorities.

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