Menasha, Wisconsin – City leaders lifted the emergency curfew and burn ban that were put in place after an EF‑3 tornado struck the Fox Valley on July 27. The city’s statement called the action “another positive step forward as our community continues to move from the immediate response into the longer recovery process.”
Background on the emergency measures
When the tornado ripped through parts of Appleton, Menasha and neighboring Neenah, local authorities enacted a citywide curfew and a temporary ban on open burning. The restrictions were intended to protect residents from hazards such as downed power lines, unsecured debris, and the risk of accidental fires during the chaotic cleanup period.
Police reported multiple arrests for curfew violations during the weeks following the storm, underscoring the challenges of maintaining public safety amid widespread destruction.
Recovery funding and federal assistance
The United Way Fox Cities has awarded $651,500 to 30 local nonprofit organizations that are assisting with response and recovery efforts. Those funds support a range of services, from shelter and food distribution to debris removal and counseling for affected families.
Representatives from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) visited the Fox Valley last week to conduct damage assessments. The findings from those assessments will determine the level of federal aid that will be allocated to the region for rebuilding infrastructure and supporting long‑term recovery projects.
What lifting the curfew and burn ban means for residents
With the curfew and burn ban officially lifted, residents can resume normal evening activities and safely conduct outdoor burning for yard clean‑up, provided they follow standard fire‑safety guidelines. City officials emphasized that while the emergency orders are ending, the community must remain vigilant as recovery work continues.
Mayor [Name Not Provided in Source] urged citizens to stay engaged with local volunteer groups and to report any lingering hazards, such as unstable structures or hazardous material spills, to the police or the city’s public works department.
Looking ahead
The city’s next steps include ongoing debris removal, repairing damaged utilities, and supporting homeowners through insurance and grant programs. Community leaders stress the importance of collaboration between municipal agencies, nonprofit partners, and federal resources to ensure a resilient rebuild.
As Menasha transitions from emergency response to sustained recovery, the removal of the curfew and burn ban serves as a tangible sign that the city is moving forward, while still honoring the needs of those still rebuilding their lives after the storm.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
