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US: Over 390,000 customers lose power as tornado tears through northeast Wisconsin
🇴🇲 Oman /Disasters & Emergencies

US: Over 390,000 customers lose power as tornado tears through northeast Wisconsin

From Times of Oman · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News From a news agency Ongoing story
  • Over 390,000 customers lost power in Wisconsin after severe thunderstorms and a tornado struck the region.
  • The "extremely dangerous" tornado caused significant damage, tearing roofs off homes and uprooting trees in Menasha and Appleton.
  • A utility worker was killed in a suspected lightning strike in Whitewater, Wisconsin, while another worker was injured.

Northeast Wisconsin is grappling with widespread power outages affecting over 390,000 customers following a severe storm outbreak that included an "extremely dangerous" tornado.

The tornado tore through Menasha and Appleton, ripping roofs off homes, destroying properties, and uprooting trees. The National Weather Service classified the tornado as at least an EF-2, with ongoing damage assessments. Authorities urged residents in affected areas to shelter in place due to the extensive destruction and hazardous conditions.

If you are currently in your home or currently stuck in the area that has been damaged, we ask that you shelter in place and stay inside.

— Matthew AlbrechtMenasha Police Chief Matthew Albrecht urged residents to remain indoors during a news conference following the tornado.

First responders are assessing the damage and searching for potential victims. Police departments have advised the public to stay indoors, be aware of downed power lines, and avoid driving through road closures. Winnebago County officials reported significant damage, but impassable roads complicated the full assessment.

We are aware of severe damage in broad areas. We are asking the public to stay indoors, watch out for downed power lines, do not drive around road closures, and do not drive around the area unless absolutely necessary.

— Menasha Police DepartmentThe Menasha Police Department issued a statement on Facebook advising residents on safety measures after the tornado.

The tornado touched down shortly before noon and remained on the ground for about 20 minutes. While earlier severe thunderstorm warnings had indicated the risk of damaging winds and a possible tornado, the specific tornado warning was issued minutes after the twister had already formed.

Tragically, the severe weather also claimed a life. A 29-year-old utility worker in Whitewater, Wisconsin, died from a suspected lightning strike while trimming trees. Another worker was injured in the incident. Forecasters warn that the severe weather system could bring further destructive winds, large hail, and isolated tornadoes to the Great Lakes and Ohio Valley regions.

The supervisor of the crew reported that there was a 'loud bang and a flash' and they believed the tree had been struck by lightning.

— Whitewater Fire and EMSWhitewater Fire and EMS described the incident in a statement regarding the utility worker's death.
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Originally published by Times of Oman. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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