WEST LAUREL, Md. – A home in West Laurel is a danger to the public after strong winds sent a tree crashing into its roof like an ax.

“The trunk of the tree was invisible in the house,” says John Warring, a neighbor. “The top of the tree was in the front of the yard and on the roof.”

A Prince George’s County squad car guarded the exterior of the property, which is roped off with yellow police tape, Friday morning.

“It’s totaled because it’s through the foundation,” Warring says.

Severe storms moved across the area Thursday, at one point prompting the National Weather Service to issue a very strong and urgent warning.

“Take cover now,” reads the statement. “This tornado has been confirmed by county officials.”

Authorities say the storm system caused damage along the border of West Laurel and Columbia, Md.

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