2 Hospitalized After EF2 Tornado Hits Southern MN Town

MOWER COUNTY, MN — The National Weather Service has confirmed that Taopi, Minnesota suffered a direct hit from an EF2 tornado Tuesday night. The city suffered significant damage and at least two people were hospitalized. No deaths have been reported.

A tornado warning was issued just after 10:30 p.m. for southeast Mower County. After the warning went out, authorities started receiving reports of damaged homes, according to a news release.

Additionally, two people were trapped in their basement and had to be rescued. They were taken to the Mayo Clinic for evaluation and treatment for their non-life-threatening injuries.

The tornado also downed power lines, caused gas leaks, and whipped up a lot of debris across the city.

The affected areas in Taopi were searched and evacuated, officials said. Three families were given shelter by authorities. Other residents in town found shelter with family and friends.

Residents are being asked to stay out of the damaged areas as crews start the recovery and cleanup process.

Mower County Emergency Manager Amy Lammey is asking for residents to email pictures of the storm's damage for assessment.