The Minnesota Region of the American Red Cross is mobilizing people and resources to respond to the outbreak of tornadoes and strong straight-line winds across southern counties of the state on Thursday. Emergency response vehicles are already dispatched to provide food, water and cleanup supplies to the most severely affected areas.

The Red Cross can help with safe shelter, health needs, emotional support, and assistance to begin the recovery process. If you need help, call the Red Cross at 1-844-878-9933, or go to Get Red Cross Help. 

“Safety is our primary concern as we begin this response,” said Megan Mrozek, Red Cross Regional Disaster Officer. “Downed trees and power lines have created dangerous conditions in many communities. People should use extreme caution as they begin the clean-up and recovery process. Be very alert to your surroundings and make sure that you are working safely. Stay informed about changing conditions and listen to the advice of local officials.”

Follow these recovery safety tips:

• Stay out of damaged buildings.
• Watch out for fallen power lines or broken gas lines and report them to the utility company immediately.
• Wear protective clothing, including long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, gloves and sturdy shoes, and be cautious.

Trained Red Cross volunteers and staff, in cooperation with local authories, are dispatched to affected areas to begin disaster assessment. The teams help determine the extent of the damage and where assistance is most needed. In addition, prepartions to distribute relief and clean-up supplies is underway.

The Red Cross works with local, county, and state government, as well as community partners, to respond to and help people recover from disasters.

Download the Red Cross Emergency App to get instant access to information and resources on what to do after a tornado. The App is free in app stores by searching for the American Red Cross or by going to redcross.org/apps.

How you can help 

The Minnesota Region of the American Red Cross responds to more than 600 disasters every year, most are home fires. You can help people affected by disasters by making a donation to support American Red Cross Disaster Relief. Your gift enables the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help people recover from disasters big and small. Click redcross.org/mn, call 1-800-RED CROSS or text REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation. Contributions may also be sent to the American Red Cross Minnesota Region, 1201 West River Parkway, Minneapolis, MN 55454.