BRAINERD, Minn. -- A 6,000-pound famed Minnesota attraction -- known in folklore for its strength -- toppled over during an overnight severe storm early Thursday morning in the region.
Babe the Blue Ox, at Paul Bunyan Land in Brainerd, was put back on his feet later Thursday morning, the destination’s Facebook page showed.
Crow Wing County Sheriff Todd Dahl reports that as a result of the morning's severe thunderstorms, crews were working to open roads closed by storm debris and restore power. Dahl asked that those not part of the emergency crews or residents of these areas to stay out.
"There have already been numerous reports of persons in the area taking photographs and driving through road closed signs. If you are located in these areas, and don't belong there at this time, you may be cited by law enforcement," Dahl said in a news release.
Also as a result of the severe thunderstorms, the Crow Wing County Fairgrounds sustained damages. Subsequently the fair will not open to the public until 1 p.m. Thursday.
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Law enforcement will be at the gates to ensure a timely and safe cleanup for those working to get the fair open and operational.
