Overnight Storms Pounded Central Minnesota Leaving Behind Downed Trees and Power Outages

(KNSI) — The Stearns County Sheriff’s Department is asking the public to stay away from areas hard hit by severe weather overnight.

According to a press release, damage assessments are underway in Belgrade and Brooten. Public safety officials say to be aware of hazards and workers in that area as cleanup is ongoing.

The National Weather Service received reports from the Brooten Fire Department of wind gusts between 50 and 60 miles an hour five miles south of town just before 11:00. Just after 11:00 and a few miles away in Belgrade, winds of 70 to 80 miles an hour were reported. Around New London, there were reports of trees three to five feet in diameter down, along with snapped power poles. Pontoons were reportedly flipped, and some buildings had roof damage. At least one shed was destroyed as well.

Thousands of people lost power during the storms, and as of publishing time, the lights still weren’t back on for about 12,00 residents in Meeker, Kandiyohi and Stearns County.

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