Creston Police Chief Says Tornado Sirens Didn't Sound

Residents of Creston, Iowa, continue cleaning up on Sunday, April 15, 2012, following a strong storm that passed through on Saturday evening. The storm knocked down power lines, overturned vehicles, and caused extensive property damage, including the town's hospital. (AP Photo/The Des Moines Register, Bryon Houlgrave) NO SALES, MAGS OUT, MANDATORY CREDIT

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By Katie Stinson

Story Created: Apr 14, 2012 at 8:39 PM CDT

Story Updated: Apr 16, 2012 at 5:59 PM CDT

CRESTON, Iowa (AP) — The Creston police chief says tornado sirens didn't sound before a strong storm swept into town, damaging a hospital and community college.

Paul Ver Meer says there was no warning before an apparent tornado hit Saturday evening, and the first he knew that the city was at risk came from a call from Greater Regional Medical Center. The hospital sustained roof damage and had its windows blown out by storm.

Southwest Community College also suffered damage but the extent wasn't known. A message left Sunday for a campus official wasn't immediately returned. The school's website says classes won't be held there Monday or Tuesday.

Ver Meer says Creston was "very lucky" that no one was injured.

A message left for the Union County emergency director wasn't immediately returned.

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