Severe Weather Strikes U.S. and Pacific Territories in Summer 2026
The summer of 2026 has seen a series of severe weather events across the United States and its Pacific territories. In northeastern Wisconsin, a powerful tornado struck the Fox Valley area on July 27, causing significant damage to over 2,300 properties and leaving 30,000 residents without power. Meanwhile, the Northern Mariana Islands were devastated by Super Typhoon Sinlaku in April, with winds reaching 150 mph, resulting in 17 fatalities and prolonged power outages. In Spokane, Washington, wildfires destroyed 719 homes and displaced thousands, while West Virginia faced widespread flooding in mid-August, prompting a statewide emergency declaration. Catholic Charities has been actively involved in disaster response, providing housing, financial aid, and other support to affected communities.