Brittany from Jackson County asked our “What is True?” service about natural disaster footage attributed to a 2023 tornado in Moss Point. We investigated her question and found misinformation:

In October 2024, a video depicting a devastating tornado in Moss Point from June 2023 resurfaced online but was falsely attributed to Hurricane Milton. The video, which showed a vehicle surrounded by tornado debris, was widely shared on social media with captions claiming it was captured during the hurricane’s landfall.

The misinformation quickly spread, misleading viewers about the hurricane’s actual impact and the state’s preparedness for such events. The original video was recorded during a severe tornado event that struck Moss Point over a year earlier, causing significant damage but unrelated to any hurricane activity.

Fact-checking organizations like Reuters and local Mississippi news outlets debunked the false claims, emphasizing the importance of verifying the source and context of viral content. The mix-up highlights the growing issue of misattributed natural disaster footage, which can exacerbate panic and spread confusion during critical times.

Emergency management officials have urged residents to rely on trusted sources for information during natural disasters. Accurate reporting and media literacy are essential to countering the rapid dissemination of misinformation online, especially during emergencies when clear communication can save lives.

As Mississippi continues to recover from past natural disasters, combating the spread of misinformation remains a priority for local authorities and media organizations. By promoting fact-checking and responsible sharing practices, communities can ensure that vital information reaches those who need it most.

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