Save A Lot just one of several buildings damaged in Athens by possible tornado

ATHENS, Tennessee (WDEF) – Up to 23 people are being treated for injuries suffered in severe weather overnight in the Athens area.

At the Eastside shopping center, the Save A Lot store was destroyed.

Power is out for much of the city, and cell service is limited.

Officials are asking residents to limit their cellphone use.

Schools are also closed.

Deerfield Estates Community on SR 307 has severe damage and crews have accessed the area.

AT&T Statement / Athens, TN Tornado Damage
Due to equipment damage caused by a tornado, some of our customers in the Athens area may be experiencing issues with their wireless service. Our network technicians are on site assessing the damage and working to restore service as quickly as possible. We apologize for this inconvenience.

Keith Memorial is serving as a temporary shelter for Athens residents.

Hillcrest Church in Etowah is also opening to allow people to recharge phones, grab a sandwich or drink and decompress.

Polk County High is serving as the emergency shelter for Polk County.