Two tornadoes confirmed in Jackson county; damage assessments underway

GAUTIER, Miss. (WXXV) — Two confirmed tornadoes touched down in Jackson County on Sunday morning, leaving a trail of damage to businesses, apartments, and homes in Gautier and Pascagoula.

Owners and managers at Azteca’s Restaurant and Cantina say that none of their employees were injured when a tornado came directly through the popular restaurant – a huge relief since the ceiling collapsed right where kitchen staff were preparing for the restaurant’s 11 a.m. opening.

In the kitchen, water and debris cover the floor, pieces of the roof are scattered or completely gone, and even an exterior wall has crumbled.

It is unclear how long the restaurant will be closed, but the next few days will determine a lot for its future. Either way, managers say they will build back.

Azteca’s Gautier restaurant is not the only building with damage after the tornado. Gautier Mayor Casey Vaughan says so far, the Glenmark Apartments and River Bend Condominiums on Martin Bluff road, as well as at least 20 homes in the area have seen significant damage.

No injuries have been reported, but many in the community are in shock following the severe weather. We talked with many residents who say debris came through their windows and others who say the sound alone woke them from their sleep.

Some residents in these apartments and condominiums have been displaced as a result of the damage caused by the tornado. It is unclear exactly how many people are affected, but as of now, the American Red Cross is still assessing damage and finding safe places for those directly impacted.

A formal damage assessment is not yet complete, but we should know more in the coming days.

Those who were impacted by the storm and need assistance should call 1-800-733-2767. If your property suffered damage as a result of the storms, you can fill out a report by using Jackson County’s Damage Self-Report Tool.