Overnight, Friday, June 20, devastating tornadoes and high winds tore through eastern North Dakota and northern Minnesota, leaving behind fatal destruction in communities such as Enderlin, N.D., and widespread damage in Bemidji, Minn. Homes were leveled, power lines toppled, and families forced to flee to community centers, fire halls, and churches for safety. Trained American Red Cross disaster responders mobilized early Saturday morning assessing needs, delivering critical support and comforting people affected by the storms.

“Our hearts are with the families, friends, and communities grieving the loss of three lives in Enderlin and everyone dealing with the aftermath of the storms,” said Brice Johnson, Regional CEO for the American Red Cross Minnesota and Dakotas Region. “These disasters change lives in an instant. We’re working side by side with local community and tribal partners to make sure people have a safe place to stay, food, disaster resources and support they need to begin recovering.”

A Red Cross shelter is open in Bemidji, MN at the Sanford Center, 1111 Event Center Drive NE, Bemidji, MN 56601. As of 5 p.m. CDT Saturday, more than 60 people have found refuge at the shelter.

Red Cross shelters offer more than a place to sleep during disasters. They provide meals, water, health services (such as first aid, replacing medications and medical equipment), emotional support and help reconnecting with loved ones. Anyone affected can visit a shelter to access these resources—even if they don’t need overnight lodging.

In North Dakota, Red Cross disaster response teams are active in Enderlin, Jamestown, and Valley City, some of the heavily impacted areas with damage to numerous homes. Local Red Cross volunteers fanned out across communities providing water, snacks and resources as well as collecting preliminary information on the damage.

How to get help If you or someone you know needs shelter or support after these storms, call 1-800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767) or visit RedCross.org/Shelter. You can also download the Red Cross Emergency App for real-time alerts and shelter locations by texting "GETEMERGENCY" to 90999 or searching “Red Cross Emergency” in your app store.

How to help This disaster response is expected to grow as teams continue assessments in rural areas. Red Cross teams will remain in affected communities for as long as help is needed. You can help people affected by disasters like severe storms, tornadoes and countless other crises across the country by making a donation to Red Cross Disaster Relief. Your gift helps the Red Cross prepare for, respond to, and help people recover from disasters of all sizes across the country.

• Visit redcross.org

• Call 1-800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767)

• Text REDCROSS to 90999 to make a donation

As communities begin to recover, the Red Cross encourages everyone to follow these safety tips:

After a Tornado or High Winds:

• Stay out of damaged buildings until cleared by officials.

• Watch for downed power lines and dangerous debris.

• Use flashlights, not candles, due to possible gas leaks.

• If trapped, use noise (not your voice) to signal for help.

During Power Outages:

• Keep fridge and freezer doors closed.

• Never use generators or grills indoors—carbon monoxide kills.

• Unplug electronics to avoid power surges when power returns.

In Extreme Heat:

• Stay hydrated—skip sugary or caffeinated drinks.

• Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing.

• Rest in shaded or air-conditioned spaces.

• Check on older adults and neighbors. Call 911 for signs of heatstroke.