Tornado damages about 150 homes in WPAFB’s Prairies housing area

What remains of a roof dangles in front of a home after being taken off by a tornado that damaged approximately 150 homes May 27 in the Properties of Wright-Field at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. Volunteers from around Wright-Patterson AFB worked alongside base emergency responders and housing residents to ensure everyone’s safety and begin the cleanup process. (U.S. Air Force photo/Wesley Farnsworth)

What remains of a roof dangles in front of a home after being taken off by a tornado that damaged approximately 150 homes May 27 in the Properties of Wright-Field at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. Volunteers from around Wright-Patterson AFB worked alongside base emergency responders and housing residents to ensure everyone’s safety and begin the cleanup process. (U.S. Air Force photo/Wesley Farnsworth)

Approximately 150 homes in the Prairies at Wright Field housing area were damaged, 12 of which were deemed uninhabitable, after an EF3 tornado swept through the Prairies at Wright Field housing area late on May 27.

Damage to facilities on Area A and Area B at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base was minimal, and the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force sustained damage to one section of the Early Years Gallery; however, no static aircraft or artifacts were harmed.

Working with the privatized housing contractor, base officials inspected all units to identify structural damage, and displaced families were directed to temporary lodging facilities to ensure they had a safe place to stay during recovery operations.

Volunteers from across the base worked with the housing contractor and the 88th Civil Engineer Group throughout the day following the storm to clear downed trees and debris that covered that area. By the end of the day, all roads were cleared for traffic, and electrical service was safely restored.

“The support from across the base and the surrounding communities was phenomenal and greatly appreciated,” said Col. Dave Anzaldua, 88th Air Base Wing vice commander. “Taking care of those impacted by the tornado is truly a team effort and demonstrates our commitment to our Airmen and their families.”

Donations of bottled water, non-perishable food and blankets are being accepted at the Prairies Chapel Annex and the USO Center in Area A for families impacted by the tornado. Unfortunately, due to storage capacity, large donation items cannot be accepted.

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