St. Lucie County, FL — In the midst of the powerful Hurricane Milton, a devastating tornado ripped through the heart of St. Lucie County, leaving destruction in its wake. St. Lucie County Sheriff Keith Pearson took to social media earlier today to warn residents about the severe weather threat and to urge immediate action for safety.

In an Instagram video posted just moments after the tornado struck, Sheriff Pearson stood outside the sheriff’s office at 47 West Midway Road, visibly shaken by the extent of the damage. “This threat is real,” Pearson emphasized, urging everyone to take shelter.

The sheriff described how the tornado tore through a 10,000-square-foot red iron building, which housed all of the department’s patrol cars. Fortunately, no one was inside at the time, but the destruction was swift and severe. “This thing came through and took this out within a moment,” Pearson remarked.

As winds continued to howl in the background of the video, the sheriff and his team moved indoors to seek shelter, but his message was clear: this is a dangerous and life-threatening storm. He stressed the importance of heeding all warnings issued by local authorities and taking shelter immediately.

The damage caused by the tornado serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable and destructive nature of storms like Hurricane Milton. While cleanup efforts will undoubtedly begin soon, the priority remains the safety of residents in St. Lucie County.

Take Immediate Action

Sheriff Pearson’s message is one of urgency: if you are receiving warnings about severe weather in your area, take cover and seek shelter immediately. With the storm still active and dangerous conditions persisting, the public is reminded to stay off the roads, avoid hazardous areas, and remain indoors until it is safe to emerge.

Emergency services are on the ground and prepared to assist. Sheriff Pearson reassured the community, stating, “We’re out here to get you,” promising that the sheriff’s department will remain operational and ready to respond despite the damage to their facilities.

Stay Safe, Stay Informed

As Hurricane Milton continues to batter the region, it’s crucial for everyone to stay updated through official channels. Follow the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office on social media and tune into local news for the latest developments and emergency alerts.

This storm is a reminder of the power of nature, and the community is urged to prioritize safety above all else.

Key Safety Tips During a Tornado:

• Take shelter immediately in a sturdy building, preferably in a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor.
• Avoid windows and cover yourself with a mattress or heavy blankets for protection.
• If you’re outdoors, find a low-lying area or ditch, lie flat, and protect your head.
• Stay informed by listening to NOAA weather radios or following local news and emergency services for updates.

Stay safe, St. Lucie County, and know that your first responders are here to help during this challenging time.