Story perspectives

EF-3 Tornado Ravages Menasha, Leaves 30,000 Powerless, No Fatalities

7/28/2026

Summary

Story summary

County Executive Gordon Hinz said the EF-3 tornado on July 27, 2026 caused damage and no fatalities.
The Weather Service said the tornado was 1,500 yards wide, 12.1 miles long, with 145 mph winds.
Menasha’s 18,000 residents faced power loss, blocked streets and a 10 p.m.–5 a.m. curfew.
30,000 customers in Winnebago and Outagamie counties remained without electricity, prompting Governor Tony Evers to pledge help and Volunteer Fox Cities to open a donation site at UW-Oshkosh campus.

History

Historical Context

When an EF-3 tornado struck Wisconsin in 2024, Governor Tony Evers activated the state guard and opened a UW-Oshkosh donation hub, echoing the 1999 Oklahoma response. On May 3 1999 the Bridge Creek-Moore F5 tornado killed 36 people, caused about $1 billion damage and prompted a federal disaster declaration, leading to lasting shelter-building programs.

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Story summary

County Executive Gordon Hinz said the EF-3 tornado on July 27, 2026 caused damage and no fatalities.
The Weather Service said the tornado was 1,500 yards wide, 12.1 miles long, with 145 mph winds.
Menasha’s 18,000 residents faced power loss, blocked streets and a 10 p.m.–5 a.m. curfew.
30,000 customers in Winnebago and Outagamie counties remained without electricity, prompting Governor Tony Evers to pledge help and Volunteer Fox Cities to open a donation site at UW-Oshkosh campus.

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