Read the full piece by Paul Goodsell and Mike Bell on omaha.com
Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen said he and his administration are working with local officials, emergency management directors and law enforcement leaders in the aftermath of Friday’s severe thunderstorms and tornadoes that tore through eastern Nebraska.
“I have ordered that state resources be made available to assist with the emergency response and to support local first responders as they assess the damage,” Pillen said in a statement. “Nebraskans are tough, resilient people, and our neighbors and communities will rally around affected families and businesses to assist them. Nebraskans are no strangers to severe weather and, as they have countless times before, Nebraskans will help Nebraskans to rebuild.”
Pillen’s office said people in affected areas should avoid downed powerlines and follow all law enforcement directives as work continues to assess the damage.
Don Bacon on the tornadoes
Don Bacon speaks with residents after tornadoes struck the Omaha metro.
U.S. Rep. Don Bacon said he’s seen natural disasters destruction before before but nothing like he saw Friday.
He said more than 100 homes were destroyed. Although law enforcement reported some injuries, there have been no reported fatalities. Bacon called that a miracle but noted, that doesn’t mean that no one died. On Friday afternoon, emergency officials went door-to-door to check for victims.
Bacon said he expects a massive outpouring from Nebraskans because Nebraskans always pull together and take care of each other.
He said talks have already begun with federal emergency officials and the White House. He expects there will be a federal disaster declaration in the coming days.
“Strong storm cells that spawned tornadoes ravaged parts of our district late this afternoon,” he said in a statement. “Our prayers go out to those who have lost their homes, businesses or suffered damage. We also pray for a quick recovery for those who may have been injured. Right now, first responders and volunteer organizations are working to check homes for any injuries or casualties. We pray for their safety as well. As damage is assessed, we stand ready to assist the Governor however we can.”
Pete Ricketts releases statement
U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts released the following statement on the Nebraska tornadoes:
“Susanne and I are praying for everyone impacted by today’s severe weather. My office is in touch with Governor Pillen and prepared to assist with requests for any federal resources that may be needed as we recover from today’s tornadoes.”
Deb Fischer releases statement
U.S. Senator Deb Fischer released the following statement after tornadoes and severe storms struck Nebraska:
“I and all the members of our federal congressional delegation have been in touch with the Governor’s office. We will work in a coordinated way to get help to the people and communities impacted by these massive storms.”
Mike Flood releases statement
U.S. Representative Mike Flood issued the following statement on the tornadoes in Nebraska:
“Today’s historic tornadoes have devastated communities across our state — but Nebraskans are resilient and strong and will respond as we always do by working together. The entire federal delegation is coordinating to support Governor Pillen’s work to help communities as they assess the impact. Mandi and I are praying for everyone grappling with the terror and damage just experienced. We will do everything we can to support our communities as they roll up their sleeves to rebuild.”
