BROOK PARK, Ohio – The city was one of the hardest hit areas in Northeast Ohio on Tuesday (August 6), when one of four confirmed tornadoes left a trail of devastation throughout the area.
The National Weather Service (NWS) said the tornado that swept through Brook Park was 1,060 feet wide and reached peak speeds of 104 mph (167 km/h), giving it an EF-1 rating.
The tornado traveled approximately 17 miles (27 kilometers) from Brook Park to Bedford and affected several other communities, including Parma, Parma Heights, Seven Hills, Independence and Valley View.
During the August 6 tornado, the metal siding of a garage collapsed near Carol Drive and Middlebrook Boulevard in Brook Park.Photo courtesy of Brook Park Police Department
The NWS detailed the extent of the damage, noting that there was significant destruction along the tornado’s route.
The metal roof of the Brook Park Recreation Center was partially demolished.
Numerous trees were knocked over or uprooted, many fell on houses, cars and power lines.
Near Carol Drive and Middlebrook Boulevard, the metal siding of a garage collapsed, while along West 130th Street, power poles toppled or leaned.
Crews are working to stabilize fallen power poles and power lines in Brook Park, which was hit hard by the August 6 tornado and storm.Photo courtesy of Brook Park Police Department
After the storm, Mayor Edward Orcutt reported that the city’s main campus on Engle Road suffered significant damage.
In an update on the city’s Facebook page, Orcutt said the southeast corner of West 130th Street suffered the most severe damage.
“After assessing the damage at Brook Park Recreation Center, we will close the center until further notice for necessary repairs,” Orcutt said.
The city has pulled out all the stops to repair the extensive damage and is working “around the clock” to clear the rubble, the mayor said.
Brook Park residents without power can use recreation centers in Middleburg Heights and Berea for essential services such as charging electronic devices and showers.
“The entire Brook Park municipal campus is closed and currently only access is available at City Hall,” Orcutt said.
“As for parks in our area, Gallatin and American Legion are now closed due to downed wires.
“As previously mentioned, the City of Brook Park will continue cleanup efforts in our city and our City Services Department will assist in picking up the debris.
“Please bring all branches and any construction debris damage to your lawn at the curbside for pickup.”
Due to storm damage to the city’s main campus, Brook Park water park will remain closed for the remainder of the season.
The summer events planned at the water park – including the Family Luau, the Dive-In Film and the dog swim – have therefore been cancelled.
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