WAYNE COUNTY, Miss. (WHLT) – Agencies and organizations from across Mississippi are helping neighbors in Wayne County after a tornado touched down on Wednesday, February 12.

Dozens of homes were damaged or destroyed in the county. There are hundreds of downed trees, broken power poles and debris lining the roadways.

Angela Atchison, the Wayne County Emergency Management director, asked people to stay clear of Waynesboro Shubuta, Bunk Butler, Lenard Street and Van Hover roads.

Dixie Electric, along with other companies, are working to clean up and restore power.

“These guys are really unsung heroes. They have done this without sleep, without rest. They’re really running on determination rather than rest. And so, this line of work isn’t for the weak, but they do it because they love our members, they love our community, and they want to get you back to your sense of normalcy as quickly as possible,” said Amanda Mills, communications director for Dixie Electric.

The power company hopes to have power restored by the end of the weekend.

The community and American Red Cross are answering the call to gather donations to help those in need. Anyone who has been impacted can go to the Beat Four firehouse on Highway 84. Food and water will be available.