The National Weather Service is currently conducting an investigation following a tornado that touched down in southern Minnesota on Wednesday, causing damage to various buildings. Eyewitness Lillie Briahna shared captivating video footage showing the tornado crossing a highway near Hartland, approximately 100 miles south of Minneapolis, at around 4:30 p.m. The video depicts the twister tearing through a farm field and launching debris into the air.
Fortunately, as of Thursday morning, there have been no reports of injuries resulting from the storm. This incident occurred shortly after a tragic tornado struck eastern North Dakota, leaving three people dead. That same weather system had also caused significant destruction in Minnesota’s Beltrami County, particularly impacting the Bemidji area, which officials described as looking like a “war zone.”
In addition to the tornado, parts of Minnesota were hit with severe flooding due to heavy downpours on Wednesday, with additional rain predicted for Thursday. Cities such as Willmar and Minneapolis faced waterlogged streets, which caused various vehicles to stall.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration highlights that flooding is the second-deadliest weather hazard in the past decade, and experts continue to urge caution for drivers in affected areas.
As the community recovers from these challenges, it is crucial to remain vigilant and prioritize safety when encountering adverse weather conditions. This week has underscored the unpredictable nature of weather systems and the importance of preparedness.