Powerful Tornado Rips Through Olmsted County Neighborhood

Residents rally together to clean up widespread damage after EF-2 twister hits Marion Road area

Apr. 19, 2026 at 2:34am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A vast, atmospheric landscape painting depicting a tornado-ravaged neighborhood under a dramatic, foreboding sky. The scene uses deep perspective and heavy backlighting to convey the overwhelming scale of the natural disaster, with damaged homes and debris dwarfed by the sweeping, sublime power of the storm.The Marion Road neighborhood in Olmsted County faces the daunting task of rebuilding after a powerful tornado left a trail of destruction in its wake.Stewartville Today

A powerful tornado ripped through the Marion Road neighborhood in Olmsted County, Minnesota on Saturday, leaving at least 50 homes damaged and residents scrambling to recover their belongings and clean up the destruction. The National Weather Service confirmed the tornado was an EF-2, with winds up to 130 mph, and was on the ground for about 14 minutes, traveling nearly 10 miles.

Why it matters

The tornado caused significant property damage, scattering decades of memories and personal belongings for families in the area. However, the community has rallied together, with neighbors quickly assisting one another in the cleanup efforts, highlighting the resilience and spirit of the local residents.

The details

The tornado ripped off roofs, destroyed walls, and left debris scattered across the Marion Road neighborhood. Residents described the terrifying moments as the storm hit, with some narrowly escaping injury. Despite the widespread damage, officials reported no injuries. Neighbors wasted no time helping each other, going yard to yard to offer support and assistance in the cleanup.

  • The tornado touched down on Saturday, April 19, 2026.
  • The tornado was on the ground for approximately 14 minutes.
  • The tornado traveled nearly 10 miles across Olmsted County.

The players

Gary Dahley

A resident of the Marion Road neighborhood whose home sustained damage, including a damaged roof and boarded-up windows.

Jennie Murphy

A neighbor who immediately went out to help clean up the yards and assist other residents after the tornado struck.

Isabella Sanchez

A resident whose family home was damaged, causing the loss of decades of personal memories and belongings.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“My wife was in the living room, and I was in my bedroom, I heard a big crash.”

— Gary Dahley, Resident

“My husband and I got out right away and started helping our next-door neighbor just clean up her yard, so it wasn't so overwhelming for her.”

— Jennie Murphy, Resident

“We were actually fortunate. We only had the tree fall on the house and the windows come out, but the house is still up. Whereas other people have been less fortunate. They don't have roofs, they don't have walls, so all of their items are everywhere, and just trying to help them collect their things and make it easier for everybody.”

— Isabella Sanchez, Resident

What’s next

Officials have not yet provided a full estimate of the total damage or a timeline for when repairs and cleanup will be complete.

The takeaway

The tornado's destruction has left a lasting impact on the Marion Road neighborhood, but the community's resilience and willingness to support one another during the recovery process has been a bright spot in the aftermath. This event highlights the importance of preparedness and the power of neighbors coming together in times of crisis.