NWS in Hartland surveying weather damage

(ABC 6 News) – The National Weather Service is in Hartland Thursday to determine if a tornado or straight-line winds caused damage during Wednesday’s storms. The Sheriff’s Office is asking anyone who isn’t a resident, or helping in clean-up efforts, to stay clear of the city.

Freeborn County Sheriff Kurt Freitag issued this press release Thursday:

On 15 Dec 2021, at 1841 hrs, the National Weather Service issued a tornado warning for Freeborn County until 1930. Severe weather with winds gusting to 70 mph, entered Freeborn County minutes later. Freeborn County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch Center received its first report of damaged property at about 1920. Deputies and area fire departments responded to the numerous complaints of damage.

The areas that received most of the damage include the cities of Hartland, Glenville, Conger, Alden and Hayward. The surrounding rural areas also received damage to houses and other structures, such as machine sheds and barns.

It appears the city of Hartland received the most structural damage with several power lines down.

We have not received any reports of injuries as of this release.

The National Weather Service will be in Hartland today to determine if a tornado caused the damage or if damage was caused by the straight-line winds.

Unless you live in the city of Hartland, or are there to help clean up, please stay clear of the city so you don’t inadvertently hinder cleanup efforts.

Damage assessment throughout the county will begin this morning.

Kurt Freitag
Freeborn County Sheriff