Severe Tornado Causes Major Damage in Eastern Wisconsin

An “extremely dangerous” tornado struck parts of eastern Wisconsin on Monday afternoon, causing significant damage and leaving thousands without power. The National Weather Service confirmed the tornado near Appleton, Menasha, and Lake Winnebago, about 30 miles southwest of Green Bay, at approximately 12:15 p.m.

Additional areas affected include Neenah, Sherwood, Harrison, Stockbridge, Quinney, Kloten, Brant, Brothertown, Jericho, and Charlesburg. Images show twisted metal and wooden debris across a highway, forcing cars to navigate around them, while a warehouse sustained heavy damage.

“The word we all were using was ‘ominous,'” Greg Van Driest, who was at work in downtown Appleton, said. “You looked outside and thought it was three in the morning, it was that dark.”

Gordon Hintz, the top elected official in Winnebago County, reported no known fatalities or injuries, though emergency officials were assessing the damage. “The footage looks devastating,” Hintz noted. “We’ve received reports of significant damage, including downed power lines and destroyed buildings.”

Emergency systems were activated prior to the storm to ensure safety. According to Hintz, “Mother Nature doesn’t really care” about the damage inflicted.

Holley Kamba, a National Weather Service meteorologist, stated that southern Outagamie County and eastern Winnebago County experienced a variety of damage. “We’ve received calls about trees and power lines down,” Kamba said. So far, there have been no reports of injuries.

The Appleton Police Department shared a photo of downed trees and power lines on Facebook. They posted, “Appleton and neighboring municipalities are responding to many storm-related calls. Updates will be provided as information becomes available.” Social media posts also showed extensive damage in Appleton, including homes with stripped roofs and siding, overturned cars, and streets cluttered with tree limbs.

Outagamie County Executive Tom Nelson mentioned there were no confirmed fatalities or injuries, although severe damage was reported in Menasha and Fox Crossing. “This was a devastating system that caused extensive damage,” Nelson said. He advised against traveling due to damage reports, downed power lines, and road closures. “Stay put if possible,” he urged. “Check on loved ones and neighbors.”

The electric utility in Menasha reported city-wide power outages due to a transmission line collapse. A shelter was established at a local church for those in need of safety or unable to stay in their homes. The Menasha Police Department’s Facebook post asked residents to remain indoors, be vigilant for downed power lines, and avoid driving unless necessary.

Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers shared on X that he received a briefing about the storms moving through the state. “The state is ready to assist communities however possible,” Evers wrote, thanking emergency responders. “As storms continue, stay alert and stay safe, Wisconsin.”

The National Weather Service predicts further storms with strong winds, hail, and a chance of isolated tornadoes.