Owatonna Police Issue Fraud Alert After Severe Weather

The Owatonna Police Department posted a fraud alert on their website after heavy thunderstorms on Monday that included large hail in parts of town.

In the fraud alert, Owatonna police Capt. Jeff Mundale says that due to the hail that fell, "the Owatonna Police Department cautions citizens to be way of storm chasers and door-to-door sale persons claiming to be roofing and siding contractors that want to offer a free home inspection."

The media release offers several ways citizens can guard against a scam. Contact your insurance company. Get a second opinion on proposed repairs. Homeowners should avoid making an advance payment before work starts. Residents are also advised to research a company's background, or use contractors you already know.

Reports indicated hail as large as golf balls fell for a time Monday night in Owatonna. The forecast for Tuesday night also calls for the chance of severe thunderstorms, according to weather.com. A wave of cooler air will sweep through southern Minnesota later in the week with daytime highs only in the upper 50s by Thursday and Friday.