Local News

Wadena Battles Fire Amidst Tornado

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In addition to yesterday’s Memorial Day tornadoes and severe thunderstorms, Wadena battled a massive fire.  Minnesota Valley Irrigation, a plant that houses chemicals, was a blaze. Due to the size of the building multiple agencies were called for mutual aid. The City of Wadena was under a temporary shelter in place order as a precautionary. At approximately 6pm fire personnel were temporarily evacuated from the scene due to a tornado warning incoming, and took refuge at the Wadena County Courthouse. Within 30 minutes firefighters were able to return back to the scene. The building was deemed a total loss.