More than 430 volunteers showed up to assist with the cleanup in the aftermath of 100 to 110 mph winds that battered the town of Springfield early Monday. The volunteers also provided more than 60 pieces of heavy equipment, including tractors, skid steers, dump trucks, trailers and side loaders to help with the cleanup.
Additionally, more than 80 first responders from fire and EMS crews from Springfield, Tyndall, Tabor, Avon, and Scotland led the effort to remove downed trees and clean up debris from damaged and destroyed homes.
“We are pleasantly overwhelmed by the volunteer response,” said Springfield Fire Chief Shannon DeFries, who is leading the restoration effort, “it’s great to see neighbors helping neighbors in a time of need.”
The initial loss count included four homes destroyed and dozens badly damaged or damaged. Some 70 people were displaced from their homes.
Northwestern Energy continues work to restore power to customers in the hardest hit area on the south side of Springfield. A total of 170 homes lost electric service due to the storm; all but 20 had power restored by two o’clock Monday afternoon.
The American Red Cross housed four people in its temporary housing. Volunteers remain on site in Springfield, providing support to homeowners and operation personnel. The Red Cross served 470 lunches to first responders and volunteers and will continue providing meals through tomorrow.
The city of Springfield is providing two drop sites for tree debris and is planning a curbside storm rubbish collection for later in the week.