Recovery operations under way at Wright-Patterson AFB

  • Published
  • By 88th Air Base Wing Public Affairs

A total of 12 houses were deemed uninhabitable after a tornado swept through the Prairies at Wright Field housing area late on May 27.

Working with the privatized housing contractor, base officials inspected all units to identify structural damage. Displaced families were directed to temporary lodging facilities to ensure they had a safe place to stay during recovery operations.

Workers, including an army of volunteers, toiled throughout the day to clear downed trees and debris that covered the area. By day’s end, all roads had been cleared for traffic. In addition, electrical service was safely restored, including an inspection for any exposed or downed lines.

A boil advisory remains in effect. Water testing is expected to be complete May 29 followed by full restoration of service. In the meantime, residents are being provided bottled water at the Prairies Chapel Education Center.

The Prairies Child Development Center and Youth Center returned to normal operations on May 29 once power was restored and damage was sufficiently repaired to make the facilities safe for children.

A complete survey of Area A and Area B was completed with minimal damage including downed trees and debris. Airfield operations on Area A were suspended on May 28 until a thorough inspection of the taxiways and runways was completed, including the removal of 331 pounds of debris. Flight operations were declared safe early in the afternoon on May 28.

The Claims Center is being operated by the 88th Air Base Wing Legal Office in the Hope Hotel from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily to assist Airmen who suffered personal property damage.