Significant Damage after Storm Rips Through Lakes Area

The “Detroit Lakes Scenic Byway” sign on Highway 59 damaged during storm Friday, June 24, 2022

DETROIT LAKES (KDLM) – Severe storms wreaked havoc throughout the Lakes Area Friday night into the early  hours of Saturday morning.

Lakes Area residents reported significant damage including downed trees, overturned pontoons and docks, damage to buildings, power outages and more.

In Detroit Lakes, wind gusts exceeding 60 mph were reported that tore the city’s sign along Highway 59 into shreds. There was significant damage at the visitors center at the Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge after a tree fell on the building. The visitor center and wildlife drive were closed Saturday and Sunday with many trees across trails and some roads closed.

Residents spent much of Saturday cleaning up downed trees and assessing damage. The National Weather Service believes at least one confirmed Tornado touched down, but are now conducting surveys to determine the EF ratings and if there were other tornadoes not officially reported in the Lakes Area.