El Reno Residents Try To Clean Up Tornado Debris

One day after a deadly tornado outbreak, an El Reno family is taking the first steps toward rebuilding.

Wednesday, May 25th 2011, 11:14 pm

By: News 9


Michael Konopasek, News 9

EL RENO, Oklahoma -- One day after a deadly tornado outbreak, an El Reno family is taking the first steps toward rebuilding.

"We've made some good progress," said homeowner Tom Chronister. "We've sifted through everything. Got all we could salvage. We've got two roll-away dumpsters. "

Chronister, his family, and friends started at dawn Wednesday and worked throughout the day to clear away the debris.

"We've really had 20 to 30 people here just stop by to help, had a dozen people stop by with food, drinks, and water. So, we're making progress."

Chronister and his family were able to receive enough warning to seek refuge two miles to the south before the tornado hit. But not everyone in the neighborhood got that warning.

Butch Iradillon was sitting in this mobile home when the walls collapsed around him.

"Sitting right on the couch," said Iradillon. "First the windows shot out. Walls came in and out and then blew out."

Iradillon was able to walk away without a scratch.

Crews working to restore electricity to El Reno say they expect to have power up and running in some neighborhoods by Thursday.

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