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2 tigers recaptured at animal sanctuary after tornado rumbles through Georgia

PINE MOUNTAIN, Ga. — Two tigers that went missing from a southwest Georgia wildlife park after a tornado rumbled through the area early Sunday have been recaptured, officials said.

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Update 12:13 p.m. EDT March 26: “The tigers are safe!” Wild Animal Safari posted on its Facebook page shortly before noon on Sunday.

“Like much of Southwest Georgia, Pine Mountain Safari sustained extensive tornado damage this morning. Fortunately, none of our animals and employees were hurt. However, several animal enclosures were breeched, and two tigers briefly escaped,” zoo officials wrote. “Both have now been found, tranquilized, and safely returned to a secure enclosure.”

Original report: According to the Troup County Sheriff’s Office, deputies said they received a report that the big cat was unaccounted for at Pine Mountain Animal Safari park, WSB-TV reported.

Deputies said the tiger went missing after a confirmed tornado tore through the area, according to the television station.

According to the National Weather Service, a tornado watch has been issued for parts of Alabama and Georgia until 1 p.m. EDT.

Sunday’s tornado knocked down trees and damaged buildings, WSB reported. It was unclear if there were any injuries, according to the television station.

Officials with Pine Mountain Animal Safari have not commented about the tiger’s disappearance, according to WSB.

Pine Mountain Animal Safari is a drive-thru park that covers 3.5 miles, according to its website. The park will be closed on Sunday.

“We have sustained damage at the park and will not be open today,” the park said on its website. “We will update with more news as we can.”