Rescuers search wreckage after 'devastating' Wisconsin tornado
A powerful tornado tore through northeastern Wisconsin communities on Monday, leveling homes and leaving thousands without power. No deaths have been reported, but dozens were injured as search efforts continue.
Tornado Ravages Fox Cities Region
First responders searched homes and buildings on Tuesday for possible victims of a powerful tornado that ravaged several northeastern Wisconsin communities on Monday. The tornado touched down around 1 p.m. and remained on the ground for more than 20 minutes, carving a roughly 12-mile (19 km) path of destruction, according to the National Weather Service. The storm hit the Fox Cities region, home to over 100,000 people in Appleton, Menasha, and Neenah.
Damage and Rescue Efforts
Winnebago County Executive Gordon Hintz described the impact as "incredible, devastating," noting that authorities were still in the assessment stage. David Chew, 55, of Menasha said a tree smashed through his roof and an outdoor patio lounger was swept away, while a neighbor's roof was partially ripped off with furniture and drywall "sucked out." Despite widespread damage, no deaths have been reported. Police Chief Matt Albrecht attributed this to the timing of the storm – early afternoon when most people were awake and at work, and after warnings had been issued. Dozens were injured, and officers continued door-to-door searches.
State of Emergency and Power Restoration
Governor Tony Evers declared a state of emergency for the affected areas, and shelters were opened for displaced residents. Appleton Mayor Jake Woodford said several neighborhoods were "truly devastated." Power lines were tangled with broken trees, making restoration slow and risky. More than 10,000 customers in Winnebago and Outagamie counties remained without power, with full restoration expected to take several days. The weather service said the tornado was spun off by a large storm system fueled by a buildup of heat and humidity.
