Governor Tony Evers has declared a state of emergency after severe storms caused widespread damage throughout eastern Wisconsin on Monday.
At least one tornado has been confirmed by the National Weather Service with preliminary surveys indicating an EF3 tornado damaged the Menasha and Appleton area.
“We are continuing to assess the devastation and destruction Wisconsin is seeing, especially in the Fox Cities, and we are committed to doing everything we can to help every family, business, and community affected recover,” said Gov. Evers.
“This emergency declaration will ensure every available resource is deployed so we can respond quickly to the needs on the ground, and I want to thank the neighbors, emergency and first responders, local partners, and volunteers who are already working to help to restore essential services, clean up neighborhoods, and assess the damages. Together, we will recover and recover stronger, and I ask everyone to keep the families and communities affected in your thoughts over the coming days and weeks as they rebuild.”
Multiple fire services, law enforcement, public works, utilities, volunteer organizations and other emergency response agencies have been deployed to help the public with recovery operations.
The State of Emergency Operations Center was elevated to a “level 3.” Gov. Evers’ declaration will help ensure agencies, local partners, utilities and emergency management officials can continue working together and respond quickly to damage and effects caused by the severe weather.
Wisconsin Emergency Management, has been working with counties to assess damage and determine resources needed for a speedy recovery.