Press Releases

Congressman Glenn Grothman (R-WI) led the entire bipartisan Wisconsin Congressional delegation in support of Wisconsin’s request that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) conduct a Joint Preliminary Damage Assessment (PDA) with Wisconsin Emergency Management following the devastating EF3 tornado that struck the Fox Valley on July 27. 

The tornado caused widespread destruction across Appleton, Menasha, Neenah, and Fox Crossing. It remained on the ground for more than 20 minutes, traveled approximately 12 miles, reached nearly one mile in width, and produced estimated winds of 136 to 165 miles per hour. More than 30,000 homes and businesses lost power. 

The members wrote, “The tornado ripped roofs from homes and businesses, hollowed out houses, reduced some structures to little more than their exterior walls, overturned vehicles, snapped trees, and brought down utility poles and power lines. Debris was scattered across neighborhoods and highways, roadways became impassable, families were displaced, and more than 30,000 homes and businesses lost power.” 

The Members emphasized the importance of a timely assessment, writing, “Conducting a timely Joint Preliminary Damage Assessment is an essential first step in securing the federal support needed to help affected families, local governments, and communities recover and rebuild.” 

The letter urged FEMA to “begin work in partnership with Wisconsin Emergency Management as soon as possible so that this process can move forward without delay.” 

Governor Evers has declared a state of emergency, while Neenah, Menasha, and the Town of Grand Chute have issued local emergency or disaster declarations. 

Read the full letter here.