Video: The tornado that ripped through Granbury in Texas

A Herne Bay mother says she is lucky to be alive after being caught up in the tornadoes that have killed dozens of people in the US.

Suzy Shearing suffered a broken arm, cuts to her right leg and puncture wounds in her back when a twister ripped through Granbury, Texas.

Six people were killed in the town earlier this month, which Suzy moved to last month.

At least 24 people have been confirmed dead after a huge tornado destroyed homes in the Oklahoma City area this week.

From her hospital bed, Suzy wrote on Facebook: "They say I am lucky to be alive. The house and car are totalled.

"In so much pain, puncture wounds in my back, broken left arm, two big lacerations in right leg and chunk taken out of right foot.

"Connected to IV, unable to get out of bed.

"Not seen what's left of the house apart from Channel 11 News, and photos. Don't think I want to go back."

Before moving to the US a few years ago, Suzy lived in Maritime Avenue, Beltinge, and was a prominent supporter of Briary school's parents and friends association.

Association member Adrian Dempsey said: "When she lived here, she was one of our staunch supporters and was well-known and liked in the community.

"We have had lots of messages and good wishes sent for her."

Suzy is expected to make a full recovery.

Her son Joe still lives in the town. Her daughter Charlotte recently moved to the US to live with her.