Turmoil in College Park after tornado touches down

Maddy Scarff
April17, 2017, 9am

COLLEGE PARK, Md. Around 8:30 a.m., a tornado touched down in the city of
College Park. The most heavily damaged area is Knox Road and Route 1. However,
Mayor Lara Hollenczer said they couldnt confirm that other areas were not damaged or
that anyone has been injured.

Mayor Hollenczer issued statements saying that there are thunderstorms coming
through the area and urges all civilians to stay indoors. The F3 category tornado, which
means there was recorded 158-206 mph wind gusts and serve damage, this morning is
being compared the last tornado that College Park in 2012.

At this time it is not confirmed how many have been injured or reported deaths. The
city is working with the University of Maryland to evacuate students. They are facing
difficulties due to downed power lines, which have caused the loss of power affecting
half of the city. Mayor Hollenczer did say that they have a few back up generators but are
hesitant to use them because of the possible incoming storms.

Many first responders are responding to calls, assessing damage, and aiding anyone
who may possibly be injured. However, several dozen firefighters and two trucks are
currently trapped near Mowatt Garage.

Civilians are urged to continue to call 911 and report all damages and injuries. All
injured people will be brought to Prince Georges Hospital, Washington Hospital Center,
and Holy Cross Hospital.

There are reports of damages to Ritchie Coliseum as well as of broken windows and
downed power lines. Mayor Hollenczer, once again urges all people to stay inside, find a
basement of safe spot, seek shelter inside due to the possibility of future storms.

Mayor Hollenczer has been unable to reach University of Maryland, President

Wallace Loh. However, she was able to reach Governor Larry Hogan.

Governor Hogan has issued a state of emergency for Prince Georges County. It is
likely that Anne Arundel County and possibly Washington D.C. will aid the city of
College Park during, by adding additional resources and help to those heavily affected
areas.
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