ENDERLIN, North Dakota (2025-06-22 00:56:00) – A destructive tornado tore through North Dakota, leaving a trail of devastation in its wake. The storm claimed the lives of two men and a woman and plunging thousands into darkness.
North Dakota Mourns Lives Lost After Tornado
Three fatalities confirmed after a tornado strikes near Enderlin.
- Three people died in the Enderlin area due to the storm.
- The National Weather Service confirmed tornado-related fatalities.
- Thousands of North Dakota residents are without power.
- Minnesota also experienced storm damage, including high winds and flooding.
Looking for details on the deadly North Dakota tornado? The severe weather event resulted in three deaths in the Enderlin area, leaving thousands without power, marking a tragic event for the region.
Enderlin Devastation
The National Weather Service (NWS) in Grand Forks verified that two of the deaths occurred when a tornado struck a home approximately three miles east of Enderlin,in Cass County near the Ransom County line. The Cass County Sheriff’s Office reported the discovery of two bodies at the residence in rural Enderlin after the tornado passed through the area.
Enderlin Fire Department personnel later found a third victim. The storm system was part of a larger weather pattern that brought hail and high winds across the upper Midwest.
Tornado Ratings
NWS teams have made preliminary tornado ratings based on the observed damage:
- West of Valley City: at least EF-3
- south of Valley City: at least EF-2
- Enderlin area: at least EF-3
Power Outages
The Associated Press reports approximately 24,000 customers in North Dakota are experiencing power outages as a result of the storm.
Storm Aftermath in Minnesota
While North Dakota grapples with the aftermath of the tornado, Minnesota is also dealing with the impact of severe storms.
Extensive damage was reported in Bemidji, minnesota, due to high winds and flooding.
Bemidji Impact
Beltrami County Emergency Management issued a tornado warning for the southern portion of the county, including Bemidji, shortly after midnight. While there were no confirmed tornado sightings in the area, a National Weather Service team is assessing the damage in Bemidji.
Wind gusts reached 106 mph at the Bemidji Regional Airport around 12:55 a.m.Heavy rain and flash flooding caused numerous vehicles to stall in downtown Bemidji. Though no injuries have been reported, widespread power outages and damage to infrastructure have affected many residents.
Crews are actively working to clear fallen trees from roadways. A temporary assistance center has been established at the Sanford Convention Center, located at 1111 events center Drive NE. Those needing help can enter through the convention center entrance near The tavern, not the arena entrance.
Assistance Available
Anyone needing assistance can go to the Sanford Convention Center at 1111 Events Center Drive NE and use the convention center entrance near The Tavern, not the arena entrance.
This story uses information from the Associated Press and the Cass County Sheriff’s Office.
Understanding Tornado Preparedness
The recent tornadoes and severe storms across North Dakota and Minnesota serve as a stark reminder of the power and unpredictability of nature.While the immediate focus is on rescue and recovery, it’s also an opportune time to consider tornado preparedness. Having a plan in place can substantially increase your chances of survival when a tornado strikes. How can people prepare for a tornado?
The Enhanced Fujita (EF) Scale provides a framework for understanding tornado intensity.This scale helps assess damage and estimate wind speeds, with ratings ranging from EF-0 (weakest) to EF-5 (most devastating). Understanding the potential impact of different EF ratings is vital for preparedness.
Essential tornado Safety Measures
Here are some practical steps you can take to protect yourself and your family from tornadoes:
- Identify Safe Shelters: Determine the safest place in your home. This is typically an interior room on the lowest level, such as a basement, storm cellar, or a room with no windows. Avoid windows, doors, and outside walls.
- Prepare emergency Kits: Assemble a disaster kit with essential supplies. This kit should include water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, a NOAA weather radio, a first-aid kit, and any necessary medications. Keep this kit easily accessible.
- Stay Informed: Monitor weather updates regularly thru NOAA Weather Radio, local news, or weather apps. Be aware of the difference between a tornado watch (conditions are favorable for tornadoes) and a tornado warning (a tornado has been sighted or indicated by radar).
- Practice Drills: Conduct regular tornado drills with your family to simulate what to do during a tornado. Everyone should know were to go and what actions to take.
- Understand your risk: If you live in an area prone to tornadoes, consider investing in a storm shelter or safe room. these provide excellent protection against high winds and flying debris.
Tornado Myths vs. Facts
Many misconceptions surround tornadoes. Clearing up confusion can improve safety.
| Myth | Fact |
|---|---|
| Tornadoes only strike in the spring. | Tornadoes can occur at any time of the year, though they are most common in the spring and early summer. |
| Opening windows will equalize pressure and prevent structural damage. | Opening windows is not recommended and is not necessary. the primary cause of damage is wind and debris, not pressure differences. Seek shelter immediately. |
| You can outrun a tornado in a car. | Not always; this can be dangerous. Generally, the safest course of action is to find sturdy shelter.If no shelter is available, get out of the car and lie in a ditch. |
Being prepared for a tornado involves having a clear plan, practicing it, and staying informed about the weather. This includes knowing how to stay safe during a tornado and understanding the risks involved in different situations.
After the Storm – Recovery and Assistance
After a tornado, numerous resources are available.
- Report damage: Report any damage to your local emergency management agency or the cass County Sheriff’s Office.
- Contact Your Insurance Company: Initiate the claims process quickly to begin the recovery of your property.
- Seek Assistance: Locate temporary assistance centers where you can receive immediate help, such as food, water, and shelter, like the one at Sanford convention Center in Bemidji.
- Support Your Community: Help volunteer; your help can make a dramatic difference in your community’s ability to rebuild.
What should you do after a tornado passes? It is essential to assess damage, report it, and contact your insurance. Also, seek support from local authorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to common questions about tornado safety:
What is the best place to shelter during a tornado?
The safest place is typically an interior room on the lowest level of a sturdy building. This could be a basement, storm cellar, or a room with no windows.
How will I know if a tornado is coming?
Stay informed by monitoring your local news, NOAA Weather Radio, or weather apps. Tornado watches mean conditions are favorable; warnings mean a tornado has been sighted or indicated by radar.
What should I do if I am caught outdoors during a tornado?
If possible, seek shelter in a sturdy building. Otherwise, lie flat in a ditch or low-lying area and protect your head and neck.
How can I help my community after a tornado?
Volunteer to help clear debris, provide assistance at temporary assistance centers, and donate to reputable disaster relief organizations.
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