Wisconsin Declares State of Emergency After Severe Storms and Tornadoes

A state of emergency was declared in Jefferson, Juneau, Rock, and Sauk Counties in southern Wisconsin following severe storms and tornadoes that struck the region on April 28, 2024, according to the Wisconsin Emergency Management Agency (WEMA). The declaration allows for the mobilization of state resources to support local response efforts, as reported by the Associated Press.

What triggered the emergency declaration?

The storms, which included multiple tornadoes, caused widespread damage to homes, infrastructure, and agricultural areas, according to WEMA. The National Weather Service (NWS) confirmed at least three tornadoes touched down in the region, with the strongest rated EF2 on the Enhanced Fujita Scale. “These storms were part of a larger system that affected much of the Midwest, but the impact in southern Wisconsin was particularly severe,” said NWS meteorologist Sarah Lin.

How are local authorities responding?

Local officials in the affected counties have activated emergency operations centers to coordinate recovery efforts. Rock County’s emergency management director, Mark Reynolds, stated that damage assessments are ongoing, with initial reports indicating over 100 damaged structures. “We’re prioritizing search and rescue, utility restoration, and sheltering for displaced residents,” Reynolds said in a press briefing. The Wisconsin National Guard has also been deployed to assist with debris removal and logistics.

What are the immediate impacts on residents?

At least 150 residents have been temporarily displaced, according to the Red Cross, which has set up shelters in Jefferson and Rock Counties. Power outages affected over 5,000 households, though most have been restored as of May 1. Farmers in the region reported significant crop damage, with some losing up to 70% of their spring planting, according to the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture.

How does this compare to past severe weather events?

This event marks the first major tornado outbreak in southern Wisconsin since 2018, when a series of storms caused $200 million in damages. Unlike that incident, however, this year’s storms occurred during a period of below-average rainfall, exacerbating the risk of soil erosion and long-term agricultural impacts, according to University of Wisconsin-Madison climatologist Dr. Emily Torres. “The combination of intense wind and dry conditions created a unique challenge for recovery,” Torres said.

What are the next steps for affected communities?

Federal assistance may be requested through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in the coming days, pending a formal damage assessment. Meanwhile, local governments are urging residents to avoid downed power lines and report hazards through emergency hotlines. “Our priority is safety, followed by rebuilding,” said Juneau County Supervisor Lisa Nguyen. “We’ve seen resilience in these communities before, and I’m confident we’ll recover.”