An afternoon of storms swept through the region yesterday, bringing severe thunderstorms and reports of tornadoes. One of those tornadoes went through the town of Delmont, South Dakota yesterday morning. Craig Parkhurst, Douglas County State’s Attorney, says about 25 buildings were destroyed, including the church.
The Department of Public Safety reported 9 people were taken to hospitals with non-life threatening injuries. He says that fire departments, sheriff offices, and county emergency crews in about a 50 mile radius came to assist the town.
The South Dakota Department of Public Safety had residents leave the town because of unsecured propane tanks, unstable buildings, and no electricity or water. People will be allowed to return when safety conditions improve.
Governor Dennis Daugaard activated the Emergency Operations Center yesterday to respond to the tornado relief effort along with the State Highway Patrol.
The Red Cross has set up in Tripp to help anyone effected.
