Miltona, Minn (KWAD) — Fifty-five years ago this Friday, Miltona was forever changed by a powerful tornado that tore through its heart on July 18, 1970. Though the storm lasted only minutes, its impact left a lasting mark on the community—and became a defining moment in its history.

The tornado touched down at approximately 7:02 p.m. on a Saturday evening, carving a path roughly a block and a half wide and stretching nearly three miles. It tore through homes, businesses, and farmland with little warning. In just five minutes, 11 homes, 15 businesses, and several agricultural structures were either damaged or destroyed.

Remarkably, despite the destruction, there were no fatalities. Four people sustained injuries, but the town was spared the kind of loss that so often accompanies storms of this magnitude.

In the aftermath, Miltona rallied. The local liquor store was quickly transformed into a command post for emergency response. Volunteer fire departments from surrounding towns arrived to help. Neighbors helped neighbors clear debris, secure damaged buildings, and begin the long process of recovery. Then-mayor Ernie Salvog famously promised, “Miltona will recover”—and it did.

Today, Miltona is a thriving lakeside community once again, and each July it commemorates its journey of resilience with the annual Tornado Days festival. Held on the third weekend of the month, the event celebrates not just survival, but the strength and unity that emerged from the tragedy. Festivities include a parade, street dance, games, tournaments, and live music—bringing together generations to remember and move forward.

What began as a night of destruction has become a symbol of hope. The tornado of 1970 tested Miltona’s spirit—but in the end, it only made the community stronger.