A tornado described as ‘extremely dangerous’ impacted parts of eastern Wisconsin on Monday afternoon, according to the National Weather Service. This storm resulted in significant damage and left thousands without power.
The tornado was confirmed near Appleton, Menasha, and Lake Winnebago around 12:15 p.m., 30 miles southwest of Green Bay. Additional areas affected by the tornado include Neenah, Sherwood, Harrison, Stockbridge, Quinney, Kloten, Brant, Brothertown, Jericho, and Charlesburg.
Video footage revealed twisted metal and wooden debris scattered across highways, forcing cars to navigate through the wreckage. A warehouse suffered significant damage. Greg Van Driest, working in downtown Appleton, described the sky turning as dark as night, with an ‘ominous’ appearance.
Winnebago County’s top elected official, Gordon Hintz, reported no known fatalities or injuries, though emergency responders were actively searching. Significant damage, including downed power lines and destroyed buildings, was identified.
National Weather Service meteorologist Holley Kamba received numerous reports of damage in southern Outagamie County and eastern Winnebago County. The damage included many downed trees and power lines, though no injuries were reported.
The Appleton Police Department posted images of downed trees and power lines on social media, highlighting the extensive damage in Appleton. Homes were stripped of roofs and siding, cars overturned, and streets were littered with tree limbs.
Outagamie County Executive Tom Nelson reported ‘extensive and severe damage’ in Menasha and Fox Crossing, with collapsed buildings. He advised against traveling due to road closures and safety concerns. Residents were urged to stay indoors and check on neighbors.
In Menasha, approximately 18,000 residents lost power due to a downed transmission line. Authorities established a shelter at a local church to aid those in need.
Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers assured that the state stood ready to assist affected communities. Evers commended emergency responders and advised people to remain alert as storms persisted.
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