Family working to repair Atwater home after Tuesday's Tornado damage

ATWATER, Calif. (KFSN) -- Powerful winds from a tornado that touched down in the North Valley left damage behind at an Atwater property, where workers spent Wednesday moving in and out to begin repairs after the spring storm.

Juan Carlos Arriaga said he witnessed the aftermath firsthand after stepping out of a car with his grandfather near the family property on Tuesday.

"That wind could've done a lot to us if we were outside or something. It could've probably picked us up, too," Arriaga said.

Arriaga recalled how quickly conditions worsened as the storm moved through the area.

"It started raining. My grandpa got scared and started saying we should get out of the car because the car was going to flip," he said.

While Arriaga and his grandfather were outside, his grandmother was inside the house, where she felt the storm's impact.

"My grandma started crying because she said the house was shaking," Arriaga said.

The tornado damaged his grandparents' home, impacting the roof and shattering windows. Trees on the property were also toppled.

The National Weather Service said Tuesday's tornado in Atwater was the strongest of three that hit Central California.

"What was most notable about that tornado was that it took roof material, probably aluminum or some other metal, and it twisted like licorice around powerlines," said Kris Mattarochia with the National Weather Service.

Roofing pieces were left scattered across the property.

On Wednesday, workers were seen on top of a barn, patching damage left behind by the storm. Evidence of the tornado's force was visible throughout the property, including a porch that was ripped from the ground and pushed to the side of the home.

Despite the destruction, the family said an altar near the house remained standing, something they believe symbolized protection during the storm.

For the family, the experience is one they said they had never been through and will not forget.

"Just looking at all of this, it's sad because we're used to all the porch and having all the animals sheltered," said Ana Madrigal, an Atwater resident.

Arriaga said the damage was especially difficult to see given the family's circumstances.

"It's really sad to see and I'm kind of sad for them because they don't have that much money and it's sad to see their stuff got destroyed," he said.

The family said they are grateful no one was hurt and that their animals are safe.

They expect repairs to cost several thousand dollars and have set up a GoFundMe page to help cover the expenses. Clickhere to donate to the family's GoFundMe.

For news updates, follow Ana Torrea on Facebook, X and Instagram.