News

Tornadoes strike Twin Cities

Photo: Jupiterimages, Photos.com

Nov 12, 2012 at 7:08 am

CHANHASSEN, Minn. (KNSI) Officials with the National Weather Service say two weak tornadoes touched down late Saturday on the south edge of the Twin Cities' metropolitan region.

Meteorologist Chris Franks says the tornados were of the weakest that officials rank, with top winds of about 80 mph. No injuries were reported.

The high winds from Saturday's late-season storm knocked out power to 12,000 customers at one point. Xcel Energy says only 1,000 were still without power by Sunday afternoon and it was expected to be fully restored by last night.

West St. Paul and Mendota Heights were among the hardest hit, with numerous down trees and reports of structural damage. A senior living center in Lilydale sustained damage.

The storm came after Saturday's record-breaking temperature of 69 degrees.