Tornado and Severe Storm Hit Near Evansville, Wisconsin
Damage, Power Outages, and Minor Injuries Reported
Damage ranging from minor to major, power outages, and minor injuries have been reported following a tornado and severe storm that hit near Evansville, Wisconsin, on Thursday night. The Rock County authorities have provided initial details about the aftermath of this natural disaster.
First February Tornado in Wisconsin
This marks the first time a tornado touched down in the state during February. The tornado, which was part of a storm system tracking across southern Wisconsin, brought strong winds, lightning, and hail.
Nearly two dozen local police, fire, paramedics, and service organizations swiftly responded to reports of severe weather damage in the areas east and northeast of Evansville just before 6 p.m. This rapid response was coordinated between the Rock County Sheriff’s Office and Rock County Emergency Management.
School Closures Following Tornado and Storm
All Evansville Community School District schools will be closed on Friday due to the storms and the loss of power. The decision was communicated through a Facebook post from ECSD on Friday morning. The safety of the students and staff remains the top priority.
Significant Damage Reported
First responders have reported varying damage to several structures and outbuildings. The National Weather Service and local authorities are working hand in hand to assess and clear the affected areas.
A meteorologist from the National Weather Service mentioned reports of snapped power poles, fallen trees, roof damage, and damage to trailers. Preliminary damage assessments are in progress, and it is essential for residents to cooperate with damage assessors.
Power Outages and Restoration Efforts
Damage to power infrastructure resulted in outages, affecting the areas from west of Edgerton to Footville. However, Captain Mark Thompson of the Rock County Sheriff’s Office mentioned that most of the power for the City of Evansville and the southern region has been restored.
Despite the progress, Thompson emphasized that power is still out in other affected areas nearby. A warming shelter has been established at the Evansville Fire Station to aid those impacted.
Road Closures and Safety Precautions
While Highway 14 has reopened for eastbound and westbound traffic, several side roads remain closed. Authorities are currently working to clear debris and other hazards to gradually reopen these roads. Residents are urged to avoid auxiliary roads and comply with safety instructions for their own well-being.
Minimal Injuries Reported
Thankfully, only minor injuries have been reported due to the storm. The Rock County authorities are continuing to ensure the safety and well-being of the affected individuals.
Support Resources for Storm Impact
If you have been impacted by the storm and are in need of resources, please contact 211. This helpline is available to provide the necessary assistance and support during these challenging times.
Details on the Tornado Near Evansville
A radar has confirmed that a tornado touched down in Rock County near Evansville. The tornado then tracked northwest of Edgerton and dissipated in southwest Jefferson County, just west of Fort Atkinson. Weather service meteorologists will conduct a thorough damage assessment to determine the tornado’s category level.
It’s worth noting that this is the first February tornado in Wisconsin, although the state has experienced three tornadoes during the month of January in the past. The Wisconsin Air Coordination Group is performing a flyover to survey the affected area, and the Rock County Sheriff’s Office is also utilizing drones for damage assessment.
We extend our thoughts and support to the residents affected by this tornado and severe storm, and we urge everyone to prioritize safety during the cleanup and recovery process.
