SWEETWATER, Tenn. (WATE) — An EF0 tornado moved through Loudon County Friday morning, damaging multiple structures and injuring five people.  

The majority of the devastation was located off Holt Road, near the boundary between Loudon and Monroe Counties. In just a few moments, everything was transformed for this community.

“It was just a complete shock because there was no warning; it happened so quickly and was over just as fast. I’ve never experienced anything like this,” said Leslie Guilford.

Guilford said the tornado was like nothing she had ever experienced before.  

“We rushed outside, and there was a camper next door that had flipped over four times, with people trapped inside. So, we ran over in the rain to help make sure they were alright,” she said. “We had the neighbors call 911, and soon everyone started arriving to assist and evaluate all the damage.”

Four people were in the camper that flipped over. In talking to their family, WJHL’s sister station 6 News learned that despite some minor injuries, they were doing okay.  

However, like many other residents, they weren’t the only ones who were home when it happened.  

“It was early this morning, and I think it was around 8:30, It just got really loud and the ceiling started creaking and all that other stuff,” said Craig Brackett. “Next thing I know, I’m getting a call as a responder for the camper that had rolled over and I knew exactly, it was on our property.” 

Brackett works as a first responder and also co-owns Grain Bin Commodities off Holt Road. He said multiple parts of his property were damaged, including two Airbnbs and two barns, one of which they use for events like “Fall at the Farm.”  

“It’s all about people, the buildings are replaceable and we’ve got a lot of buildings to replace, but that’s okay. The people are okay, that’s what matters,” said Brackett.  

He said now that they know everyone off the road is safe, they will help each other rebuild.  

“We have some of the best neighbors, they’ve been so supportive through everything, and they were the first ones down here right after it happened,” said Guilford. “So we’re thankful for Callie and Craig and all the other neighbors that have come by.”  

When the tornado came through, Brackett’s business was used as a post for first responders, the National Weather Service, the Red Cross, and as a place for the people displaced. While it will take a while to rebuild, they tell me they are glad everyone seems to be okay.