04/17/2026
One year ago today - April 17, 2025, “Holy Thursday” - Fremont County experienced two tornadoes and destructive hail that impacted the communities of Tabor, Randolph, Imogene, and the rural areas in between. The storms then moved into neighboring Page County, where the second tornado passed near the northern edge of Essex, ending by Nyman.
This severe weather event, forecasted by the US National Weather Service Omaha/Valley Nebraska, ultimately produced six separate tornadoes.
Before the first tornado touched down in our county, storm spotters were strategically positioned in the northern area to monitor the approaching system. These spotters included deputies from the Fremont County Sheriff’s Office and members of local volunteer fire and rescue departments, all working together to help ensure the safety of our residents.
Once the tornadoes had passed, search and rescue operations began. Teams conducted detailed surveys of affected towns and the surrounding rural road networks, working to ensure every resident was safe and accounted for. Dispatchers compiled lists of impacted properties, which proved essential for the damage assessment process.
In addition to first responders, county and state road crews worked through the night clearing debris to restore safe travel. Utility crews also worked tirelessly in the hours and days that followed to restore power across the affected areas.
In the days after the storm, an outpouring of support came from volunteers. Neighbors showed up with rakes, chainsaws, tractors, and pickup trucks to help with cleanup and recovery. Volunteers also assisted in clearing agricultural fields so their stewards could safely begin planting without risking further damage to their equipment. Local churches provided meals and spiritual support, while the American Red Cross Serving Nebraska and Southwest Iowa supplied tarps and cleanup materials to those affected.
Miraculously, there were no reported injuries or fatalities from this storm.
Though signs of the damage remain in some places, so does the strength and resilience of this community. Thank you to the men and women who gave their time and effort—from the moments before the storm to the many days after. I take great pride in living here and being part of such an incredible community!
Fremont County Sheriff's Office - Iowa
Tabor Volunteer Fire/EMS
Sidney Volunteer Fire & Rescue
Randolph Fire Department
City of Randolph, City Hall
City of Tabor, Iowa
City of Imogene