Watseka, IL – Residents across Watseka and Iroquois County are cleaning up today after powerful overnight storms brought destructive winds that toppled trees, blocked roads, and caused widespread damage.
According to the Iroquois County Emergency Management Agency (EMA), a peak wind gust of 73 mph was recorded around 10:15 p.m. Tuesday at the county’s official weather station at the Administration Building. The strong winds uprooted large trees throughout residential neighborhoods, with several blocking streets and damaging property.
Photos released by EMA show massive trees torn from the ground, exposing root systems and leaving debris scattered across roadways and yards. Cleanup crews began work early Wednesday, cutting and removing fallen trees while residents navigate impacted areas.
According to NIPSCO, the storm’s impact extended into nearby northwest Indiana, where up to 110 poles were reported damaged in the greater Rensselaer area. Officials say replacing some of those poles could restore power to many customers, and that section of repairs is being prioritized, including service restoration in Rensselaer.
Utility crews are currently working on location switching while materials are being delivered to repair sites. However, there is still no estimated time for when power will be fully restored.
No injuries have been officially reported in Iroquois County as of Wednesday, but officials say damage assessments are ongoing. Residents are urged to use caution around downed trees, debris, and any potentially affected power lines.
