Hailstorm wreaks havoc in Pine Bluffs

Several inches of hail left windows shattered, vehicles totaled and the town of Pine Bluffs without power Wednesday afternoon.

At about 5:30 p.m., a severe storm dumped several inches of golf ball-sized hail on Pine Bluffs. Several trees throughout town were uprooted, other severely damaged. Many residents were left with shattered windows in their homes.

Area farmers also reported 100 percent crop losses.

At least a dozen residents said this is the biggest hailstorm Pine Bluffs has experienced.

Late Wednesday night and early Thursday morning, the Salvation Army was in Pine Bluffs providing meals to residents. Firefighters from across Laramie County were stationed at the Laramie County Fire District No. 5 station in Pine Bluffs. EMTs from American Medical Response were also on-hand to help with calls.

Thursday morning, officials from Pine Bluffs met and discussed cleanup options.

The town will be placing roll-off Dumpsters at strategic locations throughout town for residents to dispose of their debris Thursday. Residents are advised to pile tree limbs in their front yards for pickup at a later date.

Wyoming Governor Matt Mead was in Pine Bluffs Thursday morning to meet with town officials and emergency management personnel. Mead said the Wyoming National Guard will be called to Pine Bluffs to help with cleanup and any emergency situations that may arise.

Unfortunately, Pine Bluffs and eastern Laramie County are not out of the woods yet, with the National Weather Service in Cheyenne reporting the possibility of more severe weather this afternoon. Those with nowhere to take shelter may go to the Pine Bluffs Community Center for a safe place to stay.

There is also plywood available at Pine Bluffs Town Hall for residents to board up their windows.

Check back for more developments as they arise, more coverage in next week's issue.

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