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An Editorial Opinion of The Selma Times-Journal

On Saturday night, residents in northeast Dallas County were sheltering as a tornado warning was issued. Moments later, a tornado formed near Plantersville and left a 24.25-mile path of destruction before finally dissipating one mile outside of Clanton in Chilton County.

Numerous residents were affected in Plantersville. Unfortunately, two of our fellow citizens passed away in the storm. Our thoughts and prayers go out to those families and to those families who are having to rebuild their lives.

One thing for sure is that our community comes together during these times of tragedy. That was the way people came out to help the lives of Selmians who were affected by the Jan. 12, 2023 tornado and also last year’s severe thunderstorm that left a path of damage all across the county.

People came out, as Mississippi political cartoonist Marshall Ramsey has depicted in a famous cartoon, with chainsaws and casseroles to help the people of the area. The food may have looked a little different, especially with the help of Valley Grande Mexican Restaurant. This time it was quesadillas, chips and salsa. 

Others have donated sandwiches, water and so much more. One thing that is for sure, you don’t recover from a tornado or any natural disaster like this overnight. It takes months and years to get back, if they are able to build back the same.

We know that our community and other groups will be coming to help the residents of Plantersville. If you do need help, please reach out. There are plenty of people who are willing to help. We will stand with you as we move forward.