Paul and Gail Cline never let go of each other—even as a powerful tornado ripped through their Kentucky home and violently tore them apart.

The couple, both in their 60s, are now fighting for their lives in a hospital, their story a heart-wrenching reminder of love, resilience, and the raw force of nature.

Tornado Devastates Laurel County

Last Friday, a deadly tornado swept through Laurel County, Kentucky, leveling homes and leaving a path of destruction in its wake. Entire communities have been shaken, but recovery efforts are already underway—thanks to the tireless work of first responders, volunteers, and even local high school students pitching in to help.

For Paul and Gail, the storm became a nightmare of survival.

“I See an Arm Down the Hallway”

As the tornado bore down on their house, Paul and Gail were huddled together in their bedroom, holding on to one another. Then the unthinkable happened.

According to their nieces, Taylor Baker and Brandy Bowman, the tornado’s force was so extreme that it tore off each of their opposite arms—while they were still clinging to each other.

“She said, ‘I need help. I see an arm down the hallway,’” Bowman recalled during an interview with Lex18. That arm belonged to Gail—it had been ripped from her body in the chaos. “The doctors said the reason they lost opposite arms is because they were holding hands.”

A neighbor heard their screams and rushed in, helping pull them from the debris.

Critical Condition and a Long Road Ahead

Gail is currently in a medically induced coma and on life support. Her injuries are extensive—besides losing an arm, she suffered multiple broken ribs, and both lungs were punctured by debris.

Paul, who has dementia, is struggling to understand what happened. While he’s showing small signs of improvement, the emotional trauma is still fresh for their loved ones.

“All I keep thinking about is how terrified they must have been,” Baker said. “But if there’s one thing I know—it’s that they’re both strong in their faith.”

A Home Full of History, Now Gone

The Clines’ house had been in their family for generations. Now, it’s reduced to rubble—shattered glass, exposed insulation, and splintered wood. Strangely, a few things were left untouched in the wreckage—like a robe still hanging in their bedroom.

“That’s where they were when the tornado hit,” said Bowman. “You can see where the debris came through. Their neighbor heard their cries and pulled them into the hallway.”

Their Dog Never Left

Amid the destruction, there was a small miracle. The couple’s 12-year-old dog, Sadie, went missing during the storm. She was later found lying in the ruins of the bedroom, patiently waiting for her family to return.

A Personal Loss

For nieces Taylor and Brandy, the destruction is deeply personal.

“We grew up in that house. Our grandma babysat us there. We had dinners, played in those rooms—it’s heartbreaking,” they said.

Despite their grief, they’re focused on the long road to recovery. Both of the Clines’ vehicles were destroyed, and medical and housing expenses are mounting. The family has launched a GoFundMe to help cover the costs.

Still, there’s hope.

“They survived because they held on to each other,” said Bowman. “And they’re strong enough to do it again.”

Tornadoes Claim 19 Lives Across Kentucky

At least 19 people were killed in last week’s severe storms, which hit Pulaski and Laurel counties particularly hard.

“We’ve lost 19 souls in this tragic event—each one a beloved child of God,” said Governor Andy Beshear. “Please keep praying for them, for the 10 people still being treated at UK Hospital, and for everyone affected by these devastating storms.”