Powerful Tornado Strikes Parts of Wisconsin, Leaves 30,000 Without Power

A powerful tornado ripped through northeastern Wisconsin on Monday, turning the midday sky almost black as it tore across Menasha, Appleton and neighbouring Fox Valley communities, destroying homes and businesses, overturning vehicles and cutting power to more than 30,000 customers. Emergency crews continued search and rescue operations into the night. Authorities said there were no confirmed fatalities, though some injuries were reported in Appleton.

The National Weather Service (NWS) confirmed the tornado touched down in Winnebago County before crossing Lake Winnebago and moving south toward Fond du Lac County. A preliminary damage survey indicates the tornado was at least EF2 on the Enhanced Fujita scale, with winds of 111-135 mph (179-217 kmph), although surveys are continuing to determine its final strength.

Menasha suffered the worst destruction, with homes losing roofs, businesses flattened, cars flipped and roads blocked by fallen trees, snapped power lines and debris. A laundromat, bakery and neighbourhood tavern were destroyed, while rescue workers pulled one person from a collapsed building. Appleton also reported extensive structural damage, traffic signal failures and widespread road closures. Residents described the sky becoming so dark it resembled night.

The Outagamie County Emergency Operations Center was activated, while reception centres, shelters and cooling sites were opened for displaced residents. Officials urged people to avoid non essential travel, stay away from downed power lines and report property damage through emergency channels. Cellular and internet disruptions were also reported. Menasha and Outagamie County declared local disasters, with curfews, water conservation measures and boil water advisories introduced in some affected areas as crews worked to restore electricity and clear debris.

Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers said the state was ready to assist affected communities. The same storm system also produced giant hail exceeding four inches in parts of Wisconsin, highlighting the severity of the outbreak. Recovery and detailed damage assessments are expected to continue over the coming days.