A tornado struck northeastern Wisconsin on Monday, the US National Weather Service (NWS) confirmed, touching down in Winnebago County approximately 90 miles northwest of Milwaukee. Damage was reported in cities including Appleton and Menasha. No injuries or fatalities had been reported at the time of the reports.
Greg Van Driest described the scene as "ominous," adding that it was dark enough to look like three in the morning.
Holley Kamba, a meteorologist with the NWS, noted that they were receiving reports of significant tree damage. The NWS had issued a 'destructive, severe' thunderstorm warning for the affected region. Forecasters warned that more storms were expected throughout the day.
Gordon Hintz, Winnebago County's top elected official, said he wasn't aware of any fatalities or injuries and described footage as 'devastating'. The tornado ripped roofs off homes and flipped vehicles in Menasha. Menasha Police Chief Matt Albrecht confirmed some homes and businesses were 'severely impacted'. Some homes were reduced to their outer walls, and a warehouse sustained significant damage.
The Appleton Police Department acknowledged 'several downed trees and large tree limbs throughout the city'. The Menasha Police Department urged the public to stay indoors and avoid driving due to downed power lines and trees. Outagamie County Executive Tom Nelson urged residents to avoid travel and 'stay put if possible'. A shelter was opened at a local church for those displaced or seeking temporary safety.
The tornado was moving over Lake Winnebago heading south toward Fond du Lac County. The storm was capable of producing winds exceeding 60 mph (97 km/h), with hail and the potential for isolated, brief tornadoes forecast. The NWS predicted severe weather to continue through Monday afternoon. Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers said the state 'is ready to assist communities however we can'.
The tornado knocked out power to more than 30,000 people. Twisted metal and wood debris were strewn across highways, forcing cars to navigate around the wreckage. Social media images showed homes stripped of roofs and siding, overturned vehicles, and streets filled with tree limbs. All available storm warnings were activated ahead of time to warn residents.