On Saturday, April 1st, Delaware was shaken by a rare but powerful tornado. Originating in Bridgeville, the tornado began a 14-mile path of destruction, reaching as far as Ellendale.
The National Weather Service has confirmed that this is the first fatal tornado in Delaware since 1983. The victim, a man inside his Tuckers Road home was crushed as the tornado destroyed his home, just southeast of Greenwood.
The violent storm swept through the western portions of Delaware, where it significantly damaged dozens of homes, causing hundreds of thousands of dollars in property damage. It’s hard to quantify the emotional toll on the community as a whole. But despite this, Delaware took quick action to help the victims in the area. Governor Carney has declared a state of emergency and extended an order to waive certain costs and fees associated with the tornado damage.
Emergency responders and volunteer organizations were mobilized to help with recovery on Sunday. Thousands of utility customers’ power was restored on Sunday, leaving the number without power in the hundreds.
Delaware State Police are currently investigating the death, as well as helping displaced residents and monitoring for criminal activity officials said. Houses have also been reportedly damaged by the storm in New Castle County.