Storm damage estimates start at $16.5 million for Hamilton County

photo Boats and debris litter Island Cove Marina on Friday afternoon after a tornado swept through Harrison and Ooltewah.

Friday's severe storms wreaked at least $16.5 million worth of damage, Hamilton County officials have gauged according to preliminary estimates.

At least $10.4 million of residential property in the Harrison and Ooltewah areas were completely destroyed, while $1.7 million suffered major damage and $1.8 million experienced minor damage, according to Hamilton County Emergency Services spokeswoman Amy Maxwell.

At least $2.5 worth of damage was wreaked on houses that were deemed "affected" by the storms.

"Affected" means that the home has suffered noticeable damage, but is still livable. "Minor damage" means that the residence is uninhabitable, but may be repaired within 30 days. "Major damage" means the home is fixable, but will need long-term repairs. "Destroyed" means the home is irreparable.

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