By Adam Studzinski
PONTIAC – The damage in Pontiac after Wednesday night’s tornado has left widespread debris, according to the city’s fire chief.
Chief Scott Runyon told WJEZ’s Cynthia Grau most of the debris has been kept out of the streets, but he advised any drivers to be aware of their surroundings.
“There are a lot of trees that have been knocked down, uprooted, limbs broken off. Just be very, very careful,” said Runyon. “If you can avoid the areas, please do so until we get it cleaned up. Just stay safe. Also, keep the people that are working out there safe.”
The National Weather Service reported the tornado began ripping through Livingston County at about 10:15 p.m. There were a few injuries, but nothing considered life threatening.
Runyon found himself in a “bad spot at the right time” as the storm made its way through. He was storm spotting on 900 East road, between 1900 North and 2000 North, when he found himself in the middle of the tornado.
“You couldn’t see it because of how dark it was. All of the sudden, visibility was gone. The high winds were there. We got hit by falling branches,” Runyon said.
Tornadoes were also spotted near Chatsworth, Piper City and LaSalle County.
Adam Studzinski can be reached at adam.studzinski@cumulus.com.
