Gov. Armstrong Declares Statewide Disaster

The declaration issued today via executive order activates the State Emergency Operations Plan.

FARGO, N.D. – Gov. Kelly Armstrong declared a statewide disaster and activated the State Emergency Operations Plan on June 21 after multiple tornadoes, strong winds and hail caused widespread damage Friday across North Dakota, claiming the lives of three people.

Armstrong issued a statement that read, in part, “Our hearts and sympathies go out to the family and friends of the three North Dakotans who tragically lost their lives in Friday’s tornado, and to the close-knit community in Enderlin, which suffered widespread damage.”

The National Weather Service (NWS) confirmed at least two tornadoes touched down near Enderlin and Spiritwood. It will be a few days before the exact number of tornadoes is known.

Approximately 25,000 people remained without power Saturday morning, down from nearly 37,000 overnight.