Endeavor, PA —Cleanup efforts are continuing in Forest County after a powerful micro-burst swept through the area over the weekend, causing significant damage in Endeavor.
Strong winds tore part of the roof off a kiln at a decommissioned lumber mill and scattered debris across nearby roadways. Officials say the mill has not been active for about two years, but the storm still caused extensive damage to the property.
“Over at the lumber mill in Endeavor, the kiln roof blew off and it was pretty bad actually. We had the road closed for several hours,” said Forest County Sheriff William Carbaugh.
PennDOT crews, along with volunteer firefighters from the Tionesta and West Hickory fire departments, have been working to clear debris from roadways and surrounding areas.
“Everybody did a fantastic job. I have to commend the fire companies and PennDOT. They responded very timely, getting the road open for the people up in that area,” Carbaugh said.
The storm also caused minor damage to a nearby home and a personal vehicle, but no injuries were reported.
Officials say the damage serves as a reminder of how quickly severe weather can impact the region.
“We are coming into the time period here where we will start seeing these things more frequently, so make sure you have a small first aid kit on hand, some food rations and water, stuff like that because you may be without power for a while,” Carbaugh said.
With the region now entering severe storm season, and with parts of Forest County having experienced tornadoes in the past, officials are encouraging residents to remain weather aware and prepared for rapidly changing conditions.
County officials said power has been restored to residents in the surrounding areas and the roadways have been deemed safe for travel as cleanup efforts continue.