Columbus, Ohio – Multiple deaths have been reported in central Ohio after a series of severe storms and possible tornadoes tore through parts of Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana. The first tornado warnings in Ohio were issued around 8:30 p.m. and lasted until 10:15, with storms bringing strong winds and unconfirmed tornadoes. Three individuals in Logan County were confirmed dead, as confirmed by the Logan County Coroner’s Office, with cleanup efforts set to commence in earnest the following day.
The Logan County Emergency Management Agency reported a “mass casualty event,” with numerous downed trees and damaged homes. Police in Washington Township confirmed fatalities in Lakewood, Midway, and Orchard Island. Mary Rutan Hospital in Bellefontaine saw 19 patients in the emergency room with weather-related injuries, including bone fractures and concussions.
Washington Township Police Chief Michael Thompson described the devastation caused by the storms as chaos, noting the extensive damage to streets, homes, and businesses. He emphasized the need for people to avoid the Indian Lake area to allow emergency crews to work efficiently and restore services. Thompson expected search and rescue operations with cadaver dogs to commence in daylight.
Meanwhile, schools in the Indian Lake area were closed, including Big Walnut and Olentangy schools in Delaware County. Sheriff Tracy Whited confirmed road closures in various areas due to storm damage, including Berlin Township, Berkshire Township, and the Village of Galena. In Indiana, a tornado struck Winchester, resulting in significant injuries, prompting an emergency response from Indiana Task Force One.
Kentucky also experienced storm damage, with Trimble County reporting damage to at least 50 structures, including homes. Governor Andy Beshear noted a tornado touching down in Gallatin and Trimble counties, causing minor injuries. The state’s emergency operations center was activated to coordinate the storm response. Severe weather was forecasted from northeast Texas to Indiana and Ohio, according to the National Weather Service.
The situation remains critical as authorities work to assess the extent of the damage and provide support to affected communities. The aftermath of the storms underscores the urgent need for disaster response and recovery efforts in the affected regions.