SIOUX FALLS, S.D.—Destruction from multiple tornadoes last week and the flooding from the storms has caused issues for at least two credit unions in this state, the CU Association of the Dakotas is reporting.
A series of three tornadoes struck Sioux Falls, last week, causing significant damage to around 37 buildings and power losses to thousands of households and businesses. The twisters, rated EF-2s, had winds of 100 miles per hour.
No fatalities or serious injuries were reported.
The league stated it has yet to receive any reports of credit unions sustaining serious damage. But South Dakota cities of Mitchell, Dell Rapids and Madison were hit particularly hard, as residents and CU members recover from massive flooding.
“All of our credit union branches, even those with basements, are fine and received no water damage,” Dan Cumbee, CEO of Dakotaland FCU, told the league. “However, several of our employees’ homes have been impacted, and we are allowing those people time, as well as resources, to help them recover.”
Cumbee last week also said the CU was trying to assess how many members needed assistance.
Cumbee said the CU’s Madison and Mitchell Dakotaland branches were both closed on Thursday.
“With major road construction in Madison right now, complicated with this flooding, it is difficult just to find a way to get to our building,” Cumbee said.
East River FCU in Madison was also closed on Thursday and Friday morning last week, but was expected to reopen Friday afternoon. Penni Groce, marketing specialist at the credit union, reported that while several employees were dealing with water damage at their homes and were offered the option to stay home, they are all reporting for work today. “We have a full staff ready to help our members on a case by case basis,” she told the league.