COLUMBUS, Ohio – Multiple fatalities have been reported following a series of severe storms and possible tornadoes that struck parts of Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana on Thursday night.
The storms, accompanied by strong winds and unconfirmed tornadoes, prompted tornado warnings in Ohio from 8:30 p.m. to 10:15 p.m. Three confirmed deaths occurred in Logan County, according to the Logan County Coroner’s Office, with cleanup efforts set to commence on Friday.
A “mass casualty event” unfolded in Logan County, where the Emergency Management Agency reported numerous trees downed and homes damaged. Fatalities were confirmed in Lakewood, Midway, and Orchard Island by Washington Township police.
Emergency rooms at Mary Rutan Hospital in Bellefontaine treated 19 patients with weather-related injuries. Meanwhile, Indian Lake High School became a triage center and public shelter during a concert as tornado sirens blared.
Devastation spread through Ohio’s Logan and Delaware counties, wreaking havoc and displacing residents. The Washington Township police chief described the chaos and extensive damage visible in the aftermath.
In Indiana, a tornado ripped through Winchester, resulting in “many significant injuries.” The exact number and severity of injuries remained unknown as search and rescue efforts unfolded with the arrival of daylight.
Kentucky also felt the brunt of the storms, with Trimble County reporting damage to at least 50 structures. Governor Andy Beshear confirmed a tornado touching down along the Indiana border, causing minor injuries and significant structural damage.
Severe weather warnings persisted from Texas to Indiana, underscoring the widespread impact of the storms. Emergency response teams mobilized to manage the aftermath and coordinate assistance efforts.
As communities grapple with the devastation, the focus remains on supporting recovery and providing resources to those affected by the destructive storms.