Storm Chaser Rescues Kitten from Mississippi Tornado-Ravaged Trailer Park

On Thursday, May 7 2026, storm chaser Ashton Lemley entered the devastated Gene’s Mobile Home Supply trailer park in Bogue Chitto, Mississippi, after three tornadoes flattened the community. While searching debris, Lemley heard a kitten’s meow, paused when it stopped, then heard it again, located the animal wedged between wooden posts, and captured the rescue on video. He then handed the kitten to the United Cajun Navy for care.

A kitten survives a tornado and his tiny meows bring rescueAssociated Press

Mississippi experienced at least three tornadoes that destroyed homes in Bogue Chitto and injured a dozen residents.

A kitten survives a tornado and his tiny meows bring rescue

• Ashton Lemley – A professional storm chaser active since 2010, accustomed to post-disaster searches.

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• United Cajun Navy – A volunteer disaster-response organization whose commander received the kitten, dried it, and arranged its transport to safety.

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• ~02:00 a.m. – Tornadoes touch down, flattening the trailer park.

A kitten survives a tornado and his tiny meows bring rescue

• ~04:30 a.m. – Lemley begins a systematic search of the debris.

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• ~04:35 a.m. – First meow heard; silence follows, prompting concern.

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• ~04:40 a.m. – Second meow heard; Lemley locates the kitten, rescues it, and records its moment on video.

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• ~04:45 a.m. – Kitten transferred to United Cajun Navy commander for immediate care.

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• Tornado count: >= 3 confirmed tornadoes across southern Mississippi.

A kitten survives a tornado and his tiny meows bring rescue

• Injuries: 12 individuals reported injured at the Bogue Chitto trailer park.

A kitten survives a tornado and his tiny meows bring rescue

• Date and time: May 7 2026, predawn hours (approximately 02:00–05:00 a.m.).

A kitten survives a tornado and his tiny meows bring rescue

Lemley said the rescue felt instinctive, citing his experience in disaster zones and the emotional impact of seeing any creature harmed. The United Cajun Navy commander confirmed the kitten was unharmed, dried it, and arranged transport to safety. Both expressed gratitude for community interest in the kitten’s future.

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No criticism or opposing viewpoints were reported in the available sources regarding the rescue operation.

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The incident illustrates the role of non-governmental responders—storm chasers and volunteer groups—in providing immediate, on-scene assistance after natural disasters. It also highlights empathy for animal welfare amid human crises, prompting adoption interest and media attention.

A kitten survives a tornado and his tiny meows bring rescue

• “Oh my goodness, I found him!” — Ashton Lemley, storm chaser

A kitten survives a tornado and his tiny meows bring rescue

• “Are you OK? Come here – it’s OK. … We’ll get you cleaned up, baby. Don’t you worry.” — Ashton Lemley

A kitten survives a tornado and his tiny meows bring rescue

• “I said, ‘Oh, he’s still alive!’” — Ashton Lemley

A kitten survives a tornado and his tiny meows bring rescue

• “I don’t try to get overly emotional. But it is very heartbreaking to see any type of animal or human go through something like that.” — Ashton Lemley

A kitten survives a tornado and his tiny meows bring rescue

Interest in adopting the rescued kitten has surged, with people awaiting confirmation of the animal’s original owners. Some observers have suggested naming the kitten “Tornado,” though Lemley, who is allergic to cats, will not keep it. The United Cajun Navy has taken the kitten to safety, and its future placement will depend on whether the original owners are located.

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