Workers continue to assess damage, clear debris in Bemidji and Beltrami County

By WDIO

The clean up is underway in Bemidji after winds of 100 mph caused devastating damage. (WDIO)

The Beltrami County Emergency Management team gave a brief update on Monday morning regarding the severe storms that tore through the county on Friday night into Saturday morning.

The National Weather Service (NWS) concluded their storm assessment on Sunday. Specific tornado tracks were not clearly identified, the NWS said destructive straight-line winds occurred. Top wind speeds were estimated at 90-120 mph. The most intense damage was east of the south end of Lake Bemidji.

Many homes and businesses remain without power. Officials say if anyone encounters downed power lines, to stay away and assume that the lines still have power. Beltrami Electric Cooperative says to report any lines down to 800-955-6083. On Saturday morning, Beltrami Electric reported 19,500 members without power. As of Monday morning, crews have restored power to more than 17,600 members. Additional crews have arrived to help local resources. Some areas have still been inaccessible due to debris and the extent of damage is still being assessed.

Authorities remind the public to call 911 immediately if you smell natural gas. Additional gas leaks are being discovered.

Some residents are using backup power sources such as generators. The Bemidji Police Department stresses how crucial it is to understand the benefits and risks of their use. Improper use can be deadly, particularly due to the risk of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.

CO is a colorless, odorless gas produced by generators and other fuel-burning equipment. Exposure can be fatal in as little as five minutes.

To stay safe:

Install carbon monoxide alarms outside each sleeping area and on every level of your home.
Know the symptoms of CO poisoning: dizziness, headaches, nausea, and fatigue.
If you experience these symptoms, get to fresh air immediately, call 911, and do not re-enter the area until it has been deemed safe.

Generator Safety Guidelines

To prevent CO poisoning and electrical hazards, follow these essential safety tips:

Placement: Operate generators only outdoors, at least 20 feet away from your home.
Ensure 3–4 feet of clear space on all sides for proper ventilation.
Keep generators away from doors, windows, and vents.
Direct exhaust away from living spaces.

Usage:

Use grounded extension cords and inspect for damage before use.
Ensure cords are rated for the wattage being drawn.
Use Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protection when possible.
Make sure to start/stop the generator with no electrical loads connected.
Never operate the generator in wet conditions, keep it dry at all times.
Refuel only when the generator is turned off and cool.
Do NOT plug the generator directly into your home’s outlets. Connect appliances directly to the generator using appropriate cords.
Do not overload the generator.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

The Bemidji Post Office is closed and rural delivery will be extremely limited due to debris and removal efforts. City delivery will be limited. There will be no retail services due to no internet. They are working on a process for parcel pick-up.

Private property owners are responsible for the removal of the debris and no pick-up will be conducted.

City officials and crews are working on a plan to fight congestion at the Transfer Station and the Demolition Landfill. Crews ask for the public to be patient. There is an unprecedented amount of debris to discard.

The Assistance Center has closed the overnight shelter as clients have been able to return to their pre-disaster accommodations or have made alternative arrangements. The Assistance Center will remain open from 8 a.m.-6 p.m. through Wednesday. Essential supplies such as snacks and water are still available. Meals are also available.

The United Way of Bemidji and the Community Resource Connections are coordinating relief efforts for residents on private property. Those needing assistance with debris removal or other resources can contact 218-333-0880 or visit the website at crcinform.org. They will also be collecting the information for those who wish to volunteer and assist disaster victims by contacting them by email at: director@unitedwaybemidji.org or phone 218-444-8929. The United Way has also established a Disaster Recovery Fund and donations can be made at: https://www.unitedwaybemidji.org/disaster-recovery.

The Red Cross and Salvation Army continue to support response efforts by providing meals and water to responders and residents affected by the storm. Those needing assistance with essential supplies may visit the Assistance Center at the Sanford Convention Center located at 1111 Event Center Drive NE from 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.