Effingham County Tornado Update

*The following release came from the Effingham County Emergency Management Agency on the morning of Thursday, June 18.

EFFINGHAM, Ill. — An impactful tornado travelled an estimated 12-15 miles through the northern parts of Effingham County this evening. While we know there are reports of injuries, so far, there are no reports of serious injuries or fatalities. There was also extensive damage to multiple residences, businesses, and farms. The situation is still unfolding, and we don’t expect to have a full report until after daylight. 

The first reports of damage came in around 8 p.m. near Beecher City in the north-west corner of Effingham County. The tornado traveled east-southeast with the worst damage running from west of Shumway to south of Montrose. 

Emergency response crews are actively assessing the situation. Sheriff Kuhns asks the public to avoid impacted areas to allow emergency personnel to do their work. Use extreme caution when traveling, as debris, downed power lines, and other hazards may still be present. We will share updates as more information becomes available. 

Pam Jacobs, Effingham County Emergency Management Agency Coordinator, stated: “At this time, we have received reports of injuries but no fatalities. We have also received reports of damaged houses and buildings along the path of the tornado. We are incredibly grateful for the quick action of our first responders.” 

Recovery efforts will continue in the coming days, and additional updates will be provided as information becomes available. 

The Effingham County Sheriff’s Office sent out an official statement on June 18:

 

First of all, our hearts go out to the families who suffered catastrophic loss during tornado that hit Effingham County on June 17, especially those that were injured.  Our hopes and prayers will continue as we double-check and make sure everyone is safe and accounted for.  Thankfully we have not received any reports of fatalities or missing persons.

During the storm and its immediate aftermath, the Effingham County 911 Center dispatched the following calls for service to law enforcement, fire departments, and emergency medical personnel:

• 17 calls involving utility-related problems
• 14 calls involving homes, farms, or businesses that sustained heavy damage or structural collapse
• 2 storm-related vehicle accidents
• 2 business alarm calls attributed to weather conditions
• 3 calls involving reports of smoke, gas, or fire odors
• 1 storm-related emergency medical assistance call
• 8 weather-related calls, including reports of downed trees, funnel clouds, and tornado touchdowns

Several agencies are still working to check for injured, clear the roads and power lines and assess the damage.  Please do not venture into the heavily damaged areas just to look.  There are still power lines down and roadways filled with hazards.  Please let the emergency crews work.

 

I know the community will come together to clean up and salvage property like they always do.  That is how our community works, but please be careful, there are still hazards to contend with.

 

Times like these are when we all demonstrate that Effingham County is a great place to live and work.