St. Louis County responding to windstorm damage in Aurora/Hoyt Lakes area

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Public Works Department  • Richard H. Hansen Transportation & Public Works Complex
4787 Midway Road, Duluth, MN 55811 • Phone: (218) 625-3830


James T. Foldesi, P.E.
Public Works Director/Highway Engineer

NEWS RELEASE

 

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 
September 7, 2023

MEDIA CONTACT: Dana Kazel, Communications Manager

218-725-5049 (office) • 218-591-2219 (cell)

 

St. Louis County responding to wind storm damage in Gilbert, Aurora, Hoyt Lakes region

Tuesday's wind storm resulted in a significant number of trees and large branches blown down in the Gilbert, Aurora and Hoyt Lakes region. St. Louis County Public Works crews responded last night and again this morning to assess damage and begin clearing trees that are blocking roads. Initial reports include more than 200 trees down on Bass Lake Road alone.

 

Public Works crews are working in cooperation with Lake Country Power and other utility companies, as there are numerous downed power lines mixed within the trees, creating added challenges as they work to clear roads.

 

People are reminded to stay away from any downed power lines, and to call 911 to report unsafe road conditions.

 

People also are encouraged to check on neighbors and loved ones in the area, as some roads are still unpassable. If help is needed to check on someone, call 911 or - if from outside the area - call St. Louis County Emergency Communications at 218-727-8770.

 

Meanwhile, St. Louis County Emergency Management is working with townships, cities and electrical co-ops to compile a preliminary damage assessment to determine the possibility of requesting a disaster declaration.

 

Storm damage - Bass Lake Road

An estimated 200 trees were blown over on Bass Lake Road during Tuesday's wind storm. Anyone encountering unsafe road conditions should call 911 to report.


Storm damage clean up - Bass Lake Road

St. Louis County Public Works crews responded immediately following the storm and again Wednesday, working in cooperation with Lake Country Power to clear downed trees from county roads.

 

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