APPLETON, Wis. (AP / WRN) — A tornado has struck northeastern Wisconsin, causing widespread damage and power outages.
The National Weather Service confirmed Monday afternoon’s tornado in Winnebago County. Cities including Appleton and Menasha reported severe impacts, with roofs ripped off homes and vehicles flipped over. Menasha Police Chief Matt Albrecht said many businesses and homes were severely affected. Appleton Mayor Jake Woodford says there are also reports of injuries.
“I don’t have any updates to provide for you on that front right now, but there have been some injuries reported as of this afternoon. There have been no reported fatalities. However, this is a fluid situation and we’ll await further updates,” Woodford said. “Residents are advised to avoid unnecessary travel if at all possible. There are many roads, not only in Appleton but in neighboring communities that are currently closed or impassable as a result of storm damage.”
Emergency officials are still assessing the damage and searching the stricken area. The storm knocked out power to over 30,000 people, and authorities have opened a shelter for those displaced.