UPDATE: The National Weather Service has confirmed an EF-1 tornado hit Monmouth on the morning of Wednesday, June, 17.
****
Power outages continued into Thursday after a destructive storm hit Monmouth around 8:30 Wednesday morning — downing trees and power lines, damaging multiple buildings, and derailing a train.
BNSF has confirmed additional details about the derailment, which happened southeast of Monmouth as the storm hit the area.
A BNSF spokesperson told TSPR that 18 cars blew over and derailed from the main line at around 8:30 a.m.
There were no injuries and no hazardous materials were involved.
The spokesperson said crews cleared the cars, repaired the main line, and trains were back in operation by 7 a.m. Thursday.
The National Weather Service was sending crews the Monmouth area on Thursday morning to evaluate the extent and cause of the damage.
The weather service said initial indications suggest the damage is likely due to straight-line winds.
In addition to downed power lines and trees, roofs and storefronts of several downtown buildings were damaged in the storm, including the roof at city hall.
Weather spotters reported widespread tree damage, with many whole trees and large branches down across northern Warren County.
Ameren and local officials are warning people to stay away from downed power lines.
Police also say to practice caution while driving.
The Red Cross is also in town for anyone in need of temporary shelter, as city crews work to clear debris.
