A devastating EF3 tornado tore through parts of Neenah, Appleton, and Menasha on Monday, leaving a trail of destruction and thousands without power. The community has come together to provide support and aid to those affected.

Relief Efforts Underway

Local businesses and individuals have mobilized to provide food, water, and supplies to disaster survivors. Volunteers are clearing fallen trees and debris to reopen roads and protect homes. Roy Eckberg, a meteorologist at the National Weather Service in Green Bay, described the tornado’s rapid development as unprecedented in northeast Wisconsin.

Ben Clemmer, a resident who lives near severely damaged businesses, set up a phone charging station outside his house to help neighbors stay connected. Jesse Hieb, of Muskego, drove his truck around the affected areas, handing out water and Gatorade bottles with James Enderle, outreach pastor for Living Savior Lutheran Church.

Local restaurants have transformed into food distribution sites, with Waverly Beach Bar & Grille planning to give out box lunches daily. Tornado survivors with no place to stay are being bused to Christ the Rock Community Church, which is providing overnight shelter. Operation BBQ Relief, a nonprofit disaster relief organization, is serving barbecue meals to storm victims and first responders.

Community Comes Together

Chris Ghobrial, owner of 18 Acres Food Truck, drove up from Watertown to give out smashburgers outside Christ the Rock. The community is grappling with the long-term implications of rebuilding, with many residents still without power and struggling to cope with the new situation.

Officials are asking nonresidents to avoid traveling to Menasha and not to self-deploy to affected areas. Winnebago County officials are circulating a resource guide with information on cooling and charging sites, food, Wi-Fi centers, shelters, medical equipment, and ways to donate. Volunteers can sign up to be officially deployed at Volunteer Fox Cities or in person at 1478 Midway Road.

Original reporting: Wisconsin Watch — read the source article.