Fire Station 154 in Conroe sustained extensive damage after a powerful tornado struck the area, leaving its roof ripped off, side walls blown out, and windows shattered. Despite the destruction, firefighters have remained steadfast in their dedication to the community, responding to calls and assisting with recovery efforts.
“We got a direct hit from the tornado; it came directly over the fire station,” said Fire Chief Howard Rinewalt of the East Montgomery County Fire Department. “I’m just so thankful that none of our members were injured. They were terrified, but after the tornado passed, they immediately went to the truck and started responding to calls. I’m so proud of them.”
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Firefighters were inside the station when the tornado struck. According to Chief Rinewalt, they had been observing the storm from the rear of the station, thinking it would pass by without incident.
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“They were watching the tornado across the street as it was going. Then it turned at the last minute and hit them directly. Thankfully, they had enough time to take cover and avoid injury,” he said.
The storm caused widespread damage across the Conroe area, including homes in the Pickering Road neighborhood, where some residents lost everything. Firefighters from Station 154 have been assisting community members with cleanup efforts, clearing yards and removing debris.
“I’ve been incredibly moved by the resilience of our firefighters and the community,” Rinewalt said. “When these things happen, people step up and show their true character. It’s amazing to see the recovery efforts and how everyone comes together as one.”
To maintain operations despite the damage, the county’s Office of Emergency Management quickly provided temporary facilities, including a bathroom trailer and a sleeping trailer for firefighters. The station is also working to secure a more permanent temporary structure.
“We’re not leaving this property,” Chief Rinewalt emphasized. “There will be no extended response times. We want the community to know we’re going through the same thing you are, and we’re not going to abandon you because of it.”
The chief also spoke about the challenges of preparing for such unpredictable weather events.
“I would be lying if I told people how to get ready for a tornado like this. It hit us completely unaware it was going to happen. But what’s most important is the aftermath – seeing everyone come together and support one another.”
As recovery efforts continue, Chief Rinewalt expressed gratitude for the community’s support and resilience.
“The biggest thing we need right now is help with cleanup,” he said. “I’m praying for the community, and I’m so sorry that everyone is going through this. But I know we’ll get through it together.”
The recovery process at Fire Station 154 is expected to take weeks, with assessments ongoing to determine the full extent of the damage and how insurance will assist in rebuilding. For now, the firefighters remain focused on their mission of serving the community, even in the face of adversity.
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