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Tiffin Today
By the People, for the People
Strong Winds Rip Roof Off Tiffin High School
No injuries reported as students watched the incident unfold
Mar. 14, 2026 at 2:51am
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Strong winds ripped parts of the roof from Columbian High School in Tiffin, Ohio, as students watched from inside. The incident forced staff to move students to safer areas and cancel after-school activities, including the opening night of the school's production of "Annie". No one was hurt, but the damage was significant enough to force the school to cancel classes for the day.
Why it matters
Extreme weather events like this can pose serious risks to school buildings and student safety. The incident highlights the importance of emergency preparedness and quick response by school staff to protect students when unexpected weather strikes.
The details
According to school officials, the strong winds peeled off the roof's insulation and fiberglass membrane, but the main roof structure remains intact. Sophomore Anabelle Alfred captured video of the roof material swirling through the air outside the school, describing the sound as "like an earthquake". School staff acted quickly to move students to safe areas within the building.
- The incident occurred on Friday, March 14, 2026.
The players
Anabelle Alfred
A sophomore student at Columbian High School who captured video of the roof damage.
Greg Williamson
The superintendent of Tiffin City Schools, who confirmed that no one was injured during the incident.
Michelle Tuite
The principal of Columbian High School, who said staff acted quickly to move students to safe areas and provide instructions.
Tiffin Columbian High School
The high school in Tiffin, Ohio where the roof damage occurred.
What they’re saying
“I went to look outside and my friend had her phone out and she was recording.”
— Anabelle Alfred, Sophomore student
“It sounded like an earthquake. We didn't really feel the shaking that much, but it sounded like it.”
— Anabelle Alfred, Sophomore student
“We moved students to safe areas in the building, and we gave them overall instruction to stay calm, be quiet, and listen for instructions.”
— Michelle Tuite, Principal
“Our musical was canceled, but the sun will come out tomorrow. We're hopeful we'll get the passage of our assessment and get back in there tomorrow.”
— Michelle Tuite, Principal
What’s next
The school district plans to hold classes on Monday, despite the damage to the roof. Repairs will likely be needed before the school can fully reopen.
The takeaway
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of emergency preparedness and quick response by school staff to protect students when unexpected weather events occur. The school's ability to quickly move students to safety and minimize injuries highlights the effectiveness of their emergency protocols.
