Friday Night Tornado and High Winds Leave Damage In Its Wake

Clinton County woke up to considerable damage left in the wake of Friday night’s storm.  National Weather Service called Clinton County Dispatch Friday Night to confirm a Tornado was observed in Clinton County located between Colfax and Frankfort, according to Clinton County Central Dispatch Director Renee Crick.

EMA, Sheriff, Fire, Police and Utility Crews responded to down trees, trapped residents in homes from debris, downed power lines and poles, and damage to vehicles and homes. Clinton County Central Dispatch was flooded with calls during and after the storm, according to Crick.  

National Weather Service issued a Tornado Warning Friday night. The Tornado warning expired at 10:15 PM for most of Clinton County, followed by a second tornado warning for far northeastern Clinton County and Howard County.  Rotation was confirmed in Clinton County and the National Weather Service notified Clinton County Authorities of a Tornado/Rotation between Colfax and Frankfort, traveling north east. 

Sirens and special LIVE coverage on WILO Radio and Shine 99 using generator power alerted the public during the event.

One property owner between Colfax and Frankfort reported winds came from the west, “ripped off his front porch” and debris was found laying to rest on the west side of structure, indicating rotation may have occurred. 

Considerable property damage was caused by the high winds traveling through the County.  WILO and Shine 99 were on Generator Power and broadcast LIVE during the event.  During the broadcast, utility Director Todd Corey reported to Kaspar Media considerable line damage and power outages occurred and the pubic should stay away from the Maish Road area.

Ascertainment of injuries and damage are still pending at this writing. Kaspar Media is not aware of any deaths or injuries in Clinton County at this time.

Renee Crick reminded residents to be aware of their surroundings.  Power lines are on the ground and roadways may be blocked. The non-emergency numbers for Dispatch:

  • 765-654-5563
  • 765-654-4431

Photos by Russ Kaspar/Kaspar Media