Thousands of Minnesotans without Power after Severe Storm

Twin Cities Metro, MN – Thousands are without power this morning after last night's storm hit central and parts of southern Minnesota hard. The storm sent heavy rain, hail, high winds and one confirmed tornado.

According to the Star Tribune, as of 6 a.m., Xcel Energy reported that nearly 70,000 customers in the metro area were still without electricity, down from 130,000 last night.

• How to Get News Alerts and Newsletters from Patch

Xcel Energy didn’t have an estimated time when those without power would have electricity.

Tornado, High Winds

The National Weather Service confirmed a tornado touched down north of Appleton in Swift County.

Widespread tree damage was reported between South Haven and Annandale, where wind gusts topped 71 mph, according to KSTP.

A pole barn was blown down near Becker, and large hail and downed trees were reported in the area.

A flash flood warning was issued for Anoka, Hennepin and Ramsey counties.

KMSP reported that six cars were trapped by the flood waters at the intersection of Fairview Avenue and Highway 36 in Roseville. At least six people were taken out of cars without any injury, according to the Roseville Assistant Fire Chief.

The city of Morris reportedly received five inches of rain during last night's storm.

Following the storm, the NWS posted photos of a double rainbow that was seen from end to end.

More thunderstorms are expected tonight and Thursday.

Image credit: Shutterstock