Tornado tears through College Park

Rachel Berglass
April 17, 2017
COLLEGE PARK, Md. At approximately 8:30 a.m. a tornado hit the
grounds of College Park between Knox Road and Route 1.

The National Weather Service are rating this an F3 on the Fujjita

Tornado Damage Scale. Governor Hogan has now declared Prince
Georges County in a state of emergency. The City of College Park has
been receiving help and services from officials from Ann Arundel
County, Montgomery County and from Washington.

The authorities have yet to release any information about the

identities of the injured. Although it is unconfirmed the mayors office
has heard of four deaths occurring on Knox Road. More of this
information should be provided within the next 24 hours. Prince George
County Hospital has confirmed they are treating at least two dozen
patients with injuries related to the disaster.

The area is ridden with broken windows and down power lines.
The Ritchie Coliseum has been damaged significantly. Local authorities
are asking that people stay off the streets and in their homes. Half of
the city is currently without electricity. This percentage has potential to
grow as the storm continues to run through College Park.

It is a fluid situation, it is changing at all times, Mayor

Hollenczer said in a press conference earlier this morning.

As the storm proceeds officials are working diligently to evacuate

the area. A large group of emergency responders are having issues
evacuating the Mowatt Lane area and South campus dormitories.

Even a thunder storm could cause havoc, reported Mayor

Hollenczer.

Mayor Lara Hollenczer urges citizens to stay indoors and away

from windows. People are instructed to stay in basements or in interior
rooms.
Citizens in need on assistance are encouraged to called 911.
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