PAULDING COUNTY, GA — An EF-1 tornado wreaked havoc on Paulding County on Saturday night, March 15, 2025, as it swept through the area with maximum winds of 110 mph, causing significant damage to homes and infrastructure. The tornado touched down at approximately 11:41 p.m. and remained on the ground for about 12 minutes, traveling northeast for approximately 11.64 miles, leaving behind a trail of destruction.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), the storm had initially produced strong winds before forming the tornado, which first touched down near the Sudie community to the west. By the time it lifted around 11:53 p.m., it had caused considerable damage, particularly along Graham Road and areas near US-278 and GA-61. Witnesses reported hearing intense winds and even described the tornado as feeling akin to an earthquake.
Residents were left shaken but fortunate. No injuries were reported. Sheriff Ashley Henson remarked, “By the grace of God, nobody was hurt. We’re so thankful for this.” He highlighted the community's resilience amid the chaos, noting, “We witnessed the true spirit of Georgia and the strength of our community.”
Around 14 homes suffered damage, including the home of Zach Burgess, where seven trees fell, narrowly missing his daughter and niece as they slept. “I ran and grabbed them and saved them from what could have been devastation,” Burgess recalled. The emotional toll was palpable as families began to assess their property losses. Henson emphasized the need for unity among residents, stating, “We saw neighbors helping neighbors, coming together in a remarkable show of unity and care.”
The storm left around 12,000 residents without power. Fallen trees toppled over utility lines and disrupted access to key roads, prompting emergency responders to work around the clock. For those directly affected, local volunteers emerged quickly to assist with recovery efforts, lending hands and equipment to clear debris. The strong spirit of community was latently visible, as strangers came together to support one another. Paulding County's government released statements expressing solidarity: “We know many of our residents have experienced damage, and some may face challenges now. Please know you are not alone,” noted the Board of Commissioners.
Driving through the impacted areas, observers noted ripped-off billboard signs and homes partially severed by fallen trees. “It’s incredible how life can change within moments,” said motorist and local resident Clifford White, who witnessed the storm's onset. “It felt like the house was shaking,” he recalled, describing the terrifying experience. “Ten seconds later, I would have had to dig through debris to get them out.”
The storm also claimed some iconic landmarks, such as the 20-foot-tall “Big Mike: Muffler Man with Wrench” statue, which collapsed during the tornado. The local Texaco gas station incurred damages estimated at $150,000, which the owner, Lucky Singh, will have to pay out of pocket after insurance only covered part of the repairs. “Branding, imaging is expensive,” Singh lamented as he reflected on the financial hit.
Jamie Box, manager of the local grocery store, assessed condition late Sunday evening, noting their storefront sustained structural damage, and loss of inventory seemed unavoidable. “At this point, it’s just about sorting through what we can salvage,” he shared.
While recovery is underway, the local authorities have warned residents to remain vigilant against potential scammers exploiting the victims of the tornado. Sheriff Henson has urged caution when hiring contractors to repair homes: “Watch out for scammers—make sure they’re verified, licensed, and insured before giving them any money,” he cautioned.
Despite the devastation and hurdles faced by the residents of Paulding County, the NWS has predicted clear skies and sunny weather with temperatures hitting 59 degrees in the following days. The community's ability to unite and recover from the storm speaks to resilience, once more highlighting the enduring strength of Paulding County. Community leaders and volunteers remain steadfastly committed to returning the area to its previous state as quickly and safely as possible.
The storm may have changed the appearance of the neighborhood, but it could not alter the spirit of the people who reside there. “We are here for you,” the county officials say, reminding those affected: “Together, we will emerge from this strong.”
