It’s been just over a week since Wessington Springs was hit by a tornado that damaged or destroyed dozens of homes and businesses. South Dakota National Guard soldiers left Wessington Springs earlier this week after spending several days helping clean up the tornado-ravaged town. Governor Dennis Daugaard visited Wessington Springs on Thursday to check out the recovery process.
Meanwhile, Lieutenant Governor Matt Michaels toured flooded areas of Canton. Residents are still suffering from last week's excessive rain and flooding with several homes still with standing water. State officials continue to assess damage to homes, roads and railroads in Canton, Wessington Springs and other areas hit by storms in eastern South Dakota.
Governor Daugaard encourages people who want to help Wessington Springs residents hit by the tornado to donate to the town's relief fund. Any business, organization or individual interested in donating can contact the Red Cross and designate a donation for Wessington Springs. Cash donations to the Wessington Springs Relief Fund can be dropped off at American Bank & Trust locations in Wessington Springs, Alpena, Huron, Wolsey, Miller, Mellette and De Smet.
Emergency management officials have opened a command center for volunteers wanting to assist those suffering from floods in Lincoln and Union Counties. People with flood damage to their homes are encouraged to call 211.
SDPB's Kealey Bultena joined Dakota Midday from Wessington Springs and Cara Hetland from Canton.