Widespread damage reported in northeast Etowah County

Etowah county EMA officials report this morning a search and rescue operation in and around the Smith Institute area in northeastern Etowah County near the Dekalb County Line.  Officials say that conditions are dangerous with downed powerlines and other debris.  All non emergency personell are being kept out of the area.  According to an EMA spokesman, several roads off of Sardis road are blocked by fallen trees and power lines.  Several people were trapped in homes destroyed by what authorities believe was a tornado that swept thru the area early this morning.  Several mobile homes as well as construction homes were reportedly destroyed or severely damaged.  EMA officials say there were no major injuries reported as crews are continuing working to remove debris to allow first responders into the area.