Cass County storm damages assessed as clean-up continues

   Sheriff Tom Burch reports that on the evening of May 30th 2022 at approximately 5:40 p.m. , the Cass County Sheriff’s Office received notice from the National Weather Service concerning a Tornado Warning for West Central Cass County. Cass County dispatchers activated the tornado sirens and conducted a NIXLE Warning, advising Cass County NIXLE subscribers of the threat.

   Following the storm, Cass County Sheriff’s Office and Local City Police began assessing damage. Storm damage occurred in Bryon, Poplar, Bungo, Pine River, Ponto Lake, Barclay, Wabedo, Inguadona, Remer, Kego, Crooked Lake, Turtle Lake, Thunder Lake, Trelipe, Slater and Torrey Townships. Some of the Cities reporting damages included Lake Shore, Remer, Backus and Pine River. Many area roads were blocked with downed trees and power lines. 

   The most extensive damage occurred in Poplar and Bryon Townships. Several structures were affected, along with a grain silo and two center pivot irrigation systems.  A radar indicated tornado was reported in the area. The National Weather Service will be conducting an assessment to determine if damage in the area was from an actual tornado. Crews are continuing to clean up from the storm. At this time, early damage estimates to public infrastructure are approximately $120,000.00 but quickly growing. 

   As of 1:00 p.m. on May 31st, all roadways are cleared and open; however, Sheriff Burch urges extra caution in these areas as tree and power line work will continue for the coming days. 

   If you have not signed up for NIXLE, please consider doing so. To subscribe to the Cass County NIXLE Alert System, go to http://www.co.cass.mn.us/ and click on the NIXLE Alerts box or you can text your Cass County Zip code to 888777 to opt-in.