Severe Storms Hit Minnesota and North Dakota, Leaving Three Dead
Photo taken by Brandon Labath shows storm damage in Bemidji. (Supplied)
BEMIDJI, Minn. (FOX 9) – Severe storms in the region left three people dead in North Dakota with storm damage reported in the northern part of Minnesota.
Aerial footage of storm damage in Bemidji will be uploaded above when it is available.
Storm Damage in Minnesota and North Dakota
Bemidji storm damage: Severe storms in the region resulted in at least three deaths in North Dakota and reported damage in Bemidji.
Photo of storm damage near Lake Bemidji taken by Jim Aakhus.
From: Supplied
Beltrami County Emergency Management said that it issued a tornado warning for the southern part of the county, which includes Bemidji, just after midnight. However, no tornado sightings were reported in the area.
Wind gusts of 106 mph were recorded at about 12:55 a.m. at the Bemidji Regional Airport.
Rain and flash flooding then left many vehicles stalled in downtown Bemidji.
No injuries have been reported, but widespread power outages and damaged infrastructure impacted many area residents.
Crews are also working to clear downed trees obstructing roadways.
Anyone needing assistance can go to the Sanford Convention Center at 1111 Events Center Drive NE and use the convention center entrance near The Tavern, not the arena entrance.
More photos of the storm damage from the Bemidji area were shared by Donnie Hedlund from HomeStar Exteriors:
Photos of storm damage from the Bemidji area taken by Donnie Hedlund from Homestar Exteriors.
From: Supplied
North Dakota Storm Damage
The National Weather Service (NWS) in Grand Forks confirmed that two of the deaths were attributed to a tornado that hit a home about three miles east of Enderlin in Cass County near the border with Ransom County.
READ MORE: North Dakota tornados leaves 3 dead, extensive damage
NWS officials are still working to determine the strength and size of the tornadoes as well as the top wind speeds.
The Cass County Sheriff’s Office reports that two people were found dead at a home in rural Enerlin after a tornado hit the area.
A third person was then found dead by the Enderlin Fire Department.
The Associated Press reports that about 24,000 customers were without power in North Dakota.
The storm was part of a larger system that also dropped hail across the upper Midwest.
The Source: This story uses information from the Cass County Sheriff’s Office, the FOX 9 weather team and the National Weather Service.
Impact on the Community
The severe storms have had a significant impact on the community, with many residents affected by power outages and damaged infrastructure.
The storm damage has also caused disruptions to daily life, with many roads closed due to downed trees and debris.
However, the community is coming together to support those affected, with assistance available at the Sanford Convention Center.
Response and Relief Efforts
Emergency management officials are working to respond to the storm damage and provide relief to those affected.
Crews are working to clear downed trees and debris from roadways, and power companies are working to restore power to affected areas.
The American Red Cross is also providing assistance, including shelter and food, to those affected by the storm.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the severe storms that hit Minnesota and North Dakota have had a devastating impact on the community, leaving three people dead and causing widespread damage.
However, the community is coming together to support those affected, and emergency management officials are working to respond to the storm damage and provide relief.
It is essential for residents to stay informed and follow the instructions of emergency management officials to ensure their safety and the safety of those around them.
FAQs
Q: What was the extent of the storm damage in Minnesota and North Dakota?
A: The storm damage was widespread, with reports of downed trees, power outages, and damaged infrastructure in both Minnesota and North Dakota.
Q: How many people were killed in the storm?
A: At least three people were killed in the storm, with two deaths confirmed in North Dakota and one death confirmed in Minnesota.
Q: What assistance is available to those affected by the storm?
A: Assistance is available at the Sanford Convention Center, including shelter, food, and support from the American Red Cross.
Q: How can residents stay informed about the storm and any updates?
A: Residents can stay informed by following the instructions of emergency management officials and monitoring local news and weather reports.
