Preliminary Estimates of Tornado Damage in North Dakota Top $1 Million

A preliminary estimate of damage from the tornado that struck Rolla, Norht Dakota last week now tops $1 million.

Rolette County Tax Director Diane Schwandt expects that estimate to grow. Schwandt says property owners are finding more damage as they inspect closely.

Schwandt says 19 buildings in Rolla were either damaged or destroyed. Of the six that were destroyed, she says three were rental properties and three were houses.

Twelve families were forced to move into temporary housing. No serious injuries were reported.

Schwandt says the numbers are for Rolla only. Forecasters say the July 7 tornado that struck the community was part of a storm system that also struck neighboring Belcourt as it moved through northern North Dakota.

Schwandt plans to give an updated report to Rolette County commissioners on July 29.