04/18/2026
Media Release: Severe Storm - Tornado (Evening Update)
Olmsted County, Minn. - Numerous tornadoes in Olmsted County have caused multiple levels of damage. At this time, no injuries or fatalities have been reported.
The Olmsted County Board has issued a disaster declaration.
Marion Township has sustained significant impact, with approximately 30 homes damaged, 12 with significant damage, the rest with minor to major damage. Emergency services have disconnected electricity and natural gas in the affected area for safety. Personnel from Minnesota Homeland Security and Emergency Management, Rochester Fire and Olmsted County Sheriff’s Office have conducted door-to-door checks to assess needs and ensure resident safety.
In Stewartville, approximately 8 homes have reported major damage with 14 more homes sustaining minor damage and 15 residents displaced. Those individuals are currently staying with family and friends.
Quincy Township in far NE Olmsted County is reporting one home damaged on one site and a shed severely damaged on another. Both families are being housed with family or friends.
Olmsted County Public Health, Rochester Emergency Management, and the American Red Cross are establishing a temporary shelter in Rochester for residents unable to remain in their homes. It is estimated that 30 to 50 individuals may utilize the shelter.
Olmsted County is requesting residents to complete a preliminary damage assessment if they have experienced property damage. Reports can be submitted through the Olmsted County website to our sheriff web email: sheriffweb@olmstedcounty.gov
At this time, there are no requests for volunteers or additional assistance.
Residents are encouraged to continue monitoring local media and official channels for updates.