Published on June 18, 2026 6:14 am
Last Updated on June 18, 2026 6:14 am
The first reports of damage came in around 8 p.m. near Beecher City in the northwest corner of Effingham County. The tornado traveled east-southeast with the worst damage running from
west of Shumway to south of Montrose.
Emergency response crews are actively assessing the situation. Sheriff Paul Kuhns asks the public to avoid impacted areas to allow emergency personnel to do their work. Use extreme caution
when traveling, as debris, downed power lines, and other hazards may still be present. We will share updates as more information becomes available.
Pam Jacobs, Effingham County Emergency Management Agency Coordinator, stated: “At this time, we have received reports of injuries but no fatalities. We have also received reports of damaged houses and buildings along the path of the tornado. We are incredibly grateful for the quick action of our first responders.”
Recovery efforts will continue in the coming days, and additional updates will be provided as information becomes available.
For the latest information, residents and media are encouraged to monitor Effingham County Emergency Management Agency’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/EffinghamCountyEMA/
