dailyloe.com – Severe thunderstorms struck McHenry County, Illinois, on Thursday night, causing widespread damage including a collapsed home. The National Weather Service reported wind gusts between 50 and 60 mph near Marengo. These storms led to downed trees, power lines, and localized flooding.
Wonder Lake Fire Chief Matt Yegge stated strong gusts downed trees and wires near Route 120. This forced closures of sections of that road and Bull Valley Road. Roadway obstructions were reported in several areas following the storm.
The most significant incident was a residential structural collapse in McHenry. The McHenry Township Fire Protection District responded to West South Street around 9 p.m. First responders arrived within four minutes to find a collapsed foundation at the rear of a single-family home.
All occupants, a family of five including two young children, escaped safely. Crews searched the home to confirm no other people or pets were inside. The home was later deemed uninhabitable and structurally unstable.
A fence was secured around the property to prevent entry into the collapse zone. The American Red Cross is assisting the displaced family with temporary shelter. Utility companies and the building department were called to isolate services and prevent further damage.
Officials stated the severe storms were contributing factors to the structural failure. A tornado warning was issued for the county’s northeastern portion during the event. The McHenry Building Department is investigating the damage.[]
Source: Shaw Local
