Patrick surveying WMass tornado damage

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Governor Deval Patrick says that the cleanup process is beginning here in Western Massachusetts following Wednesday’s tornado outbreak.

Patrick says that he has been surveying the profound damage in Springfield and West Springfield both on land and by helicopter. He is scheduled to begin surveying damage in Monson and Brimfield later in the day. He told 22News that it has been a wonder that there have been so few confirmed fatalities. The current count stands at four people.

1,000 National Guard troops are being dispersed from three locations, one in Springfield, one in Ware, and one in Worcester. The troops will be in the area for as long as necessary, Patrick said.

The Governor says that they are in the process of assessing the damage, and that

Patrick reminded viewers to stay off the roads if they can avoid traveling.