ROCKY RIVER, Ohio – Four tornadoes swept through the West Shore region in a relatively short period of time last week, but Mother Nature left behind enormous amounts of debris.

The debris of what is believed to be a huge tree currently lies on the lawn of a resident on Lakeview Avenue in Rocky River. The sawn trunks of the tree are massive.

Many other residents have a lot of fallen branches that they have cut down and placed on the tree lawn for the city to pick up.

One wonders how such large pieces of debris could be cut up so quickly.

Officials in Rocky River, Bay Village and Westlake responded to “Tornado Day” on August 6.

Stony river

“On the day of the tornadoes … police responded to 174 emergency calls,” said Police Chief George Lichman.

“For comparison: the day before … we responded to 66; the day after … it was 80.

“Despite power outages, including on the city hall grounds, we were able to continue our Safety Town program without interruption,” said Lichman.

“We have seen several cases where neighbors have helped each other clean up the yard, use the generator, etc.

He said the city has provided additional food waste dumpsters for residents without power, and the Civic Center is serving as a shelter and charging station for devices.

“Although some streets have seen increased traffic due to road closures, residents along those streets have generally been very patient and understanding,” he said.

“The city and police have received emails and social media comments over the past few days expressing thanks and appreciation for the city’s services.”

BAY VILLAGE

Police Chief Rob Gillespie explained how their teams responded during the storm.

“They responded to every single call,” Gillespie said. “Everyone came so quickly, no one was hurt, and it was a laborious and frustrating task to get the power back on.”

“Everything happened so quickly; the fire brigade and police helped people make the city safe again.

“Now it was just a matter of ensuring their safety without electricity – for the seniors – and ensuring that trees had to be replanted.

“The administration worked with the district associations to mobilize more forces and reach everyone.

“Everyone has come together – all departments of the city. Now it’s about slowly returning to normality.”

WEST LAKE

Captain Gerald Vogel described what the Westlake Police Department had to contend with.

“Tuesday’s storms brought strong winds that damaged trees and infrastructure throughout the city of Westlake,” he said.

“Our first responders did a great job throughout the event and for many days afterward.

“I know personally that we have received hundreds of emergency calls and other calls from citizens asking for help.

“The Westlake Fire and Service Departments received just as many reports. Our officers, firefighters and service personnel did an excellent job of prioritizing calls when it was the best way to protect the public and themselves,” Vogel said.

“They responded to downed power lines, trees blocking major roads, power poles on vehicles with people trapped inside, and even a burning apartment building.

“All during the first hours of the storm.

“Westlake employees put themselves in harm’s way to respond to calls for help and do their best to keep citizens safe.

“There were no serious injuries and no deaths reported in Westlake as a result of the storm. I firmly believe that the police, fire and service departments played a key role in this.

“After the storm threat passed and recovery operations resumed (and are still ongoing), the Westlake Service Department did its best to coordinate debris removal and return life to normal for those who live, work and travel in Westlake.

“I am proud of the commitment of all city employees.”

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