Columbus, Ohio – A series of severe storms and possible tornadoes wreaked havoc in parts of Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana, resulting in multiple deaths and extensive damage. The first tornado warnings in Ohio were issued around 8:30 p.m. and persisted until 10:15 p.m., accompanied by strong winds and unconfirmed tornadoes. Tragically, three individuals in Logan County lost their lives, as confirmed by the Logan County Coroner’s Office, prompting urgent clean-up efforts set to begin on Friday.
Reports of a “mass casualty event” emerged from Logan County Emergency Management Agency, detailing numerous downed trees and damaged homes. Washington Township police confirmed deaths in Lakewood, Midway, and Orchard Island, painting a grim picture of the aftermath. In Bellefontaine’s Mary Rutan Hospital, 19 patients were treated for weather-related injuries, including bone fractures and concussions, indicating the widespread impact of the storms.
The devastation observed in Ohio’s Logan and Delaware counties left a trail of destruction in its wake, with Washington Township Police Chief Michael Thompson describing the scene as chaotic. Surveying the affected areas, Thompson expressed shock and dismay at the extent of the damage, revealing the challenges ahead in assessing and addressing the aftermath of the violent storms.
As residents grappled with the repercussions of the storms, Indian Lake High School in Ohio found itself transformed into a triage center and shelter for those displaced by the inclement weather. School closures rippled across Indian Lakes, Big Walnut, and Olentangy schools in Delaware County, with significant property damage reported, including roof destruction and wrecked scoreboards at athletic fields.
Kentucky also faced the brunt of the storms, with Trimble County Emergency Management Director Andrew Stark reporting damage to at least 50 structures, including homes. Governor Andy Beshear highlighted the impact of a tornado touching down in Gallatin and Trimble counties along the Indiana state border, urging caution as more storms loomed on the horizon.
The Indiana State Police grappled with “significant injuries” following a tornado’s path through Winchester, triggering a swift response from emergency teams and search efforts. Meanwhile, residents in Indiana and Ohio grappled with power outages, fallen trees, and disrupted daily life, underscoring the urgency of the situation.
Amid reports of hail in St. Louis and unconfirmed tornadoes in Missouri and Illinois, the National Weather Service warned of continued severe weather unfolding across multiple states, underscoring the ongoing threat posed by the volatile storms. Tragedy struck communities across the region, leaving a trail of destruction that would require extensive recovery efforts in the days ahead.