Update: Storms bring downed trees, branches; more than 3,000 still without power

Published 11:43 am Saturday, July 20, 2019

Update, 2:55 p.m.: Residents and city crews are out cleaning up following the storms Saturday morning that left many downed trees and branches and thousands without power.

According to the Freeborn-Mower Cooperative Services website, more than 3,300 customers were without power in Freeborn County.

The organization posted on its Facebook page it hoped to have all Alden and Albert Lea power restored in two hours; Glenville in three hours; Emmons in four hours; and Myrtle in four to five hours. Services may be out longer than estimated, however, due to weather and the unknown damages.

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It reported extensive damage due to the high winds this morning.

The city of Albert Lea posted on its Facebook page crews were out cutting and lifting trees from roadways the streets and will be doing so throughout the weekend.

 

Earlier story:

More than 5,300 Freeborn-Mower Cooperative Services customers are without power Saturday morning after severe storms with heavy wind moved through the area.

In a Facebook post at about 11:30 a.m., the cooperative asked people without power to call 1-800-734-6421.

The National Weather Service said Freeborn County and the surrounding area were under a severe thunderstorm warning through 11:45 a.m.

Storms moved through the area earlier Saturday morning, too, leading to tornado sirens being sounded in the county. Rotating clouds were reported near Clarks Grove, according to initial reports.

Look to the Tribune for more information as it becomes available.