Rocky family estimates tornado damage at more than $100K

A Rocky area family estimates the July 18 tornado caused between $100,000 and $150,000 in damage to their property and they’re hoping to receive provincial assistance to help with recovery.

Bryn Hansen, who lives just south of Rocky Mountain House, said three buildings were completely destroyed and four others sustained significant roof and window damage.

“One was sucked right up into the tornado,” he said.

Hansen said community members stepped up immediately in the aftermath of the storm, with about 50 people arriving the very next day to help clear debris.

While a new roof has been finished on the family’s home and repairs have been completed on several other buildings, downed trees remain on the property and additional cleanup is still required.

Hansen said he has looked into the Alberta government’s recently announced support for affected landowners. On July 28, the province announced up to $1.2 million in funding to help with tornado recovery.

The family said it has been overwhelmed by the community support with Hansen saying a steady stream of neighbours have been helping to rebuild, clear debris and deliver food.

“We definitely wouldn’t have made it this far without the help,” Hansen said.

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RELATED

• Alberta government providing up to $1.2M for Clearwater County tornado cleanup
• Two tornadoes confirmed during July 18 weather event
• Reaction pours in from July 18 tornado

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Upcoming information session

Residents affected by the tornado will also have an opportunity to learn more about recovery efforts during an upcoming Clearwater County landowner information meeting.

The session will be held Thursday, Aug. 6, from 7 to 8 p.m. in the Subway Room at the Rocky Rec Centre.

The meeting will provide updates on tornado recovery efforts, cleanup progress and recently announced grant funding to support fallen tree removal, debris cleanup and wildfire risk reduction in affected areas.

County staff will share the latest information about the funding, discuss next steps in recovery planning and outline what affected property owners can expect in the coming weeks. Residents will also have an opportunity to ask questions.

Clearwater County Reeve Jordon Northcott opened the county’s July 28 council meeting by acknowledging those affected by the tornado. While noting there were no fatalities, he said the storm has had a significant impact on the community.

For those whose property was impacted by the tornado, they are also invited to complete the county’s damage assessment survey ahead of time. Find the survey link here.