In a rare moment of hope amid widespread devastation, a family cat has been found alive 16 days after a wave of 64 tornadoes tore through Alabama, demolishing homes and shattering lives.

Lavern, a 13-year-old cat, was believed lost forever when her home was destroyed during the May 22 tornado outbreak. Her owner, Terra Cruise, had resigned herself to the heartbreaking thought that Lavern would never return.

But while walking past the ruins of her old home with her sister, Suzi Hoskins, Terra heard an unexpected sound — a faint meow. Following the desperate cry, she began digging through the rubble until Lavern’s head finally emerged.

Remarkably, despite being buried for more than two weeks, Lavern was alive. She was dehydrated and had lost weight, but veterinarians expect her to make a full recovery.

“I couldn’t believe it,” Terra said. “After all this time, to hear her and see her again — it’s a miracle.”

Before the storm, Terra lived in the area with her husband, J.E., and their daughters Isabella, 4, and newborn Lauren. The discovery of Lavern’s survival has given the family — and their neighbors — a much-needed reminder of resilience and hope after tragedy.