High winds down trees across Hubbard County

High winds ripped through much of Hubbard County early Thursday morning, downing trees and causing damage throughout the region. Places like Owl's Nest Resort on the south side of 5th Crow Wing Lake near Nevis, Camp Wilderness northeast of Park Rapids and Itasca State Park are among the many locations reporting damage as cleanup efforts continue Thursday. No injuries have been reported at this time. The Hubbard County Sheriff's Office & Emergency Management reports a lot of trees and debris on the ground today, with areas of Hubbard County without power. Damage to boats, cars and homes on 5th & 6th Crow Wing Lakes and wind gust at the Park Rapids Airport was reported at 55 mph. Staff at Camp Wilderness reported winds of 70 mph.

Heavy storms and damaging winds in northern Minnesota downed trees and knocked out power in several state parks and recreation areas including Itasca State Park early Thursday. No injuries have been reported. DNR staff are still assessing state parks, trails, water accesses, roads and facilities in the northern half of the state for potential damage.  Visitors are reminded to check online at  www.mndnr.gov/closures  for updates on current conditions and closures before traveling. With power and telephone lines down, updates will be made as soon as possible. Visitors should beware of dangers posed by the aftermath of the storm, such as downed or uprooted trees, other debris on trails and at accesses, and localized flooding. The DNR is alerting guests with camping and lodging reservations impacted by closures.  

Itasca State Park Update

The park remains open for day use. The north and south entrances are open, but the east entrance is temporarily closed. Visitors are encouraged to use caution because parks and trails crews are busy cleaning up downed trees and other damage.

Most of the park’s public buildings, including cabins, the lodge and the visitor center are temporarily closed. Power and phone lines are out at this time. Camping and lodging availability will be assessed daily. It is best to go online  www.mndnr.gov/itasca  for the latest updates and current conditions. 

1/2: Trees blown down during Thursday morning's storm damaged numerous structures in Itasca State Park, including this cabin, as high winds ripped through the Park Rapids area. (Shannon Geisen/Enterprise)

2/2: Carolynne White submitted this photo of a tree uprooted at her place on Chippewa Loop on the west side of long lake. Twin trees went down and fortunately missed all the buildings.