Tornado damage in Ringle. Image courtesy: Marathon County/Sarah Severson
TOWN OF RINGLE, WI (WSAU) — A portion of the Town of Ringle remains under an evacuation order after a tornado destroyed about 75 homes on Friday, leveling some to the foundation and damaging others.
Ringle Fire Chief Chris Kielman says the full damage assessment will begin later today, and residents will not be allowed back into the area until it is deemed safe. “Please, stay out of the area right now. It’s a mess,” said Kielman. “It’s [a very bad situation,] that’s all I can say.”
Wisconsin Public Service crews have shut off natural gas to the area. Downed power lines were also reported as of Friday evening.
Sheriff Chad Billeb called it some of the worst destruction he has seen in three decades of law enforcement. “I have worked through a number of tornadoes, but for them to hit a residential area like this is rare.”
Kielman says crews did perform some rescue operations to free residents from their basements. As of Friday evening, everyone is accounted for, and no deaths or injuries have been reported.
Displaced residents are staying with friends and family. A shelter has also been established at the D.C. Everest Middle School.
Billeb says while “a lot of people are going to need a lot of help,” they are asking everyone to stay away from the area. Do not bring donations because they are not equipped to handle and distribute them. Those who want to help right now can donate to a fund set up through the Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin, which will provide rapid, flexible support for both short- and long-term needs.
A website, wi4ringle.com, has also been established to connect tornado victims with local businesses that provide support or resources.
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