Disaster Date:07/26/2021
Red Lake, MN
Tornadoes
What Happened
A tornado struck the community of Red Lake on Monday, July 26, 2021. This included the Red Lake and Redby areas on the Red Lake Indian Reservation, causing thousands of dollars in damages to buildings, motor vehicles and other structures and property. They experienced golf-ball sized hail and damaging winds that destroyed homes and vehicles. 78 homes were heavily damaged. There was no disaster declaration from FEMA, leaving the community on their own to secure funds for repairs and volunteers to make repairs.
What MDS Is Doing
MDS volunteers will be staying in a newly constructed Volunteer Center in the town of Red Lake. MDS volunteers will be replacing damaged siding, windows and doors as well as doing interior repairs once the homes are dried in.
Volunteers will have the opportunity to experience and learn a unique Native American culture during their time in Red Lake.
Location
Red Lake is located in North Central Minnesota, about 36 miles north of Bemidji. It is in a beautifully forested area and rests on the shores of Lower Red Lake. The area is known for its outstanding fishing and outdoor activities. The Red Lake Tribal Council is committed to maintaining and conducting its affairs in a manner that is aligned with the expectations of our ancestors, elders, tribal members, and future generations. About 36.8% of families and 36.4% of the population were below the poverty line.
Stories from the Field
Weekly Reports
Between thinking we would be able to move into the volunteer center and adding “two more days” onto our stay at the Seven Clans Casino Hotel, we have heard those words often. As I write, we are still waiting for local workers to cut through the...