Logan County, Ohio, experienced a fatal tornado on Thursday evening, part of a severe storm system that also caused apparent tornadoes in parts of Indiana and Kentucky. The destructive tornado near Indian Lake in Ohio resulted in at least two confirmed deaths, with authorities suspecting more casualties. Chief Deputy Joe Kpous of the Logan County Sheriff’s Office reported heavy damage in Lakeview, Midway, Orchard Island, and Russells Point.
Authorities in the Logan County area mentioned multiple injuries and significant damage to an RV park. The full extent of the destruction in the Indian Lake region was still being assessed. Amber Fagan, president of the Indian Lake Area Chamber of Commerce, described the village of Lakeview as “completely demolished,” emphasizing the devastating impact on homes, campgrounds, and local businesses. A shelter was made available for those displaced by the storm.
In another part of Ohio, Huron County officials confirmed a large and extremely dangerous tornado near Plymouth. Meanwhile, Indiana experienced a destructive tornado in Winchester, causing significant injuries and damage. The Indiana State Police Superintendent, Douglas Carter, reported numerous injuries but no known fatalities at that time. Emergency response personnel were deployed to assist in search and rescue efforts in Winchester.
Governor Eric Holcomb of Indiana acknowledged the severe weather impacting residents statewide and assured the deployment of emergency response teams to affected areas. In the aftermath of the storms, several structures were damaged in various Indiana towns, including Selma in Delaware County. Fortunately, only minor injuries were reported in the small town, with the focus on recovery and support for affected communities.
Trimble County in Kentucky also suffered significant damage to at least 50 structures, including homes, due to the storms. Governor Andy Beshear confirmed reports of a tornado touching down in Gallatin and Trimble counties, causing minor injuries. Residents were urged to remain vigilant as more storms were forecasted across the state. The emergency operations center was activated to coordinate storm response efforts.
As severe weather continued across the Midwest, reports of unconfirmed tornadoes in Missouri and Illinois emerged, with authorities monitoring the situation closely. Large hail was reported in parts of the St. Louis area, adding to the challenges posed by the ongoing storms. The impact of the severe weather across the region highlighted the importance of preparedness and response measures to mitigate the effects of natural disasters.