Southern Wisconsin Times

On the evening of Saturday, June 22, a reported tornado touched down on the south side of the City of Janesville. This weather event caused considerable damage to structures and infrastructure in the area.

The City is reminding residents to avoid affected areas on the south side unless they have a reason to be there. The public should remain careful near damaged buildings and fallen trees. Residents are advised to stay away from fallen power lines hanging overhead or on the ground, assume all downed power lines are live, and call 911 to report them.

Authorities recommend wearing sturdy shoes or boots, long sleeves, and gloves when clearing debris. It is essential to learn proper safety procedures and operating instructions before using any gas-powered or electric-powered saws or tools.

In case of a power outage, residents should use flashlights instead of candles. If candles must be used, they should be kept away from anything that can catch fire, always monitored while lit, with a fire extinguisher readily available and family members instructed on its use.

Fuel-burning equipment such as generators, pressure washers, charcoal grills, and camp stoves produce carbon monoxide (CO), which is odorless and invisible but can cause sudden illness and death if it accumulates indoors. Such equipment should never be used inside homes, basements, or garages but kept outside at least 20 feet from any window, door, or vent. A battery-operated or battery-backup CO detector is recommended whenever using fuel-burning equipment. If a CO detector starts beeping, residents should leave their home immediately and call 911.

Residents needing resources and shelter are directed to the Salvation Army Rock County at 514 Sutherland Avenue. The shelter location at the Dr. Daniel Hale Williams County Resource Center is now closed. With rising temperatures expected in the coming days, residents without air conditioning may utilize the Salvation Army facility as a cooling site.

For questions related to the Emergency Operations Center, contact the City of Janesville at (608) 373-6025.