LENA — A severe storm believed to be a tornado moved through the Village of Lena in Stephenson County at about 3:40 p.m. Friday, causing widespread damage to homes, businesses and infrastructure, while no fatalities or serious injuries were reported, authorities said. Emergency crews arrived within minutes and continued damage assessments, welfare checks and search operations across affected areas as roads remained blocked by debris and hazards including downed power lines and unstable structures persisted. Law enforcement and fire agencies from northwest Illinois, along with the Illinois State Police, are assisting under a coordinated response. Access to Lena is restricted to residents, responders, utility workers and others with a verified need, with officials urging the public to stay away. Damage estimates remain preliminary as the National Weather Service is expected to conduct a survey to determine the storm’s cause and rating. “We are extremely fortunate that this storm did not result in loss of life or serious injury,” said Stephenson County Sheriff Steve Stovall. Officials said additional updates on road closures, utility restoration and assistance will be released as available. Stovall is scheduled to hold a press conference at 8:30 a.m. Saturday in the rear parking lot of Lena-Winslow Junior High School, 517 Fremont Street.
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