(Kingsley) — The chore of picking up debris, and making repairs to buildings was the Thursday morning activity at Kingsley following a strong wind storm that damaged buildings and trees in the Plymouth County community. Kingsley saw damage mostly confined to the southern and southeastern portions of the community. Titan Machinery Company, a farm equipment dealer, suffered roof damage to a recently constructed metal building, and several homes within a new development addition on the southern edge of town also had sustained roof damage. Gary Mohr is the general manager of the Titan Machinery Company at Kingsley and describes the damage that occurred.
Mohr says the storm hit at about 5:30 p.m. Insulation from the damaged structure could be seen scattered throughout the area, as well as tin from the building was wrapped around trees located across the street to the north. In addition to the roof damage, Mohr says a large overhead door to the shop was damaged.
MidAmerican Energy was able to restore power to the town of Kingsley at around 11:00 p.m. Wednesday evening. Mohr says Titan Machinery Company was back conducting business early this morning.
Kingsley mayor, Rick Bohle says he is grateful the damage to his town was confined to a small area. Bohle says several other towns’ including Remsen, Pierson and Moville were quick to extend a helping hand if needed.
Bohle says the warning sirens had sounded giving the Kingsley residents time to seek shelter.
Governor Kim Reynolds today issued a proclamation of disaster to 43 counties impacted by Wednesday evening storm. However, Plymouth and Woodbury Counties are not a part of the 43 counties. Grants of up to $5,000 can be distributed to those families adversely affected by the storm. The funds can be used for home or car repairs, replacement of clothing or food, and temporary housing expenses.
Both the Le Mars Fire and Rescue Department along with the Oyens Fire Department responded to a hog barn located at the 19000 block of Otter Avenue that had lost its roof due to the wind storm.
