COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ohio’s governor has declared a state of emergency in 11 counties across central Ohio struck by severe weather last week.
Gov. Mike DeWine also activated the Ohio National Guard to help officials in one county, Logan County, where three deaths were confirmed, with the cleanup of storm debris on public property. DeWine announced the emergency declaration Sunday.
The declaration also covers Auglaize, Crawford, Darke, Delaware, Hancock, Licking, Mercer, Miami, Richland and Union counties. It orders all relevant state departments and agencies to lend their services, equipment, supplies, and personnel to aid in response and recovery efforts, the governor’s office said.
Thursday night’s storms claimed three lives in the Indian Lake area of Logan County, one of the hardest-hit regions.
The storms also left trails of destruction across parts of Kentucky, Indiana and Arkansas. About 40 people were injured and dozens of homes were damaged in one Indiana community. Tornadoes were also reported in Illinois and Missouri.
The National Weather Service confirmed nine tornados in Ohio, including an EF-3 tornado that began in southern Auglaize County near Fryburg and continued through the Lakeview area in northern Logan County. Forecasters say EF-3 tornados can pack winds up to 136 to 165 mph (219 to 266 kph).
EF-2 tornados – which forecasters say can have winds up to 111 to 135 mph (179 to 218 kph) — were confirmed in central Union County and in Darke and Miami counties as well as in Crawford/Richland counties.
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has declared a state of emergency following a series of severe storms that have caused multiple fatalities and widespread damage across the state. The storms, which hit Ohio over the past few days, have left a trail of destruction in their wake, with reports of downed power lines, flooded roads, and collapsed buildings.
The state of emergency declaration allows for additional resources to be allocated to assist with recovery efforts and ensure the safety and well-being of residents affected by the storms. Governor DeWine has urged residents to stay vigilant and follow safety precautions as cleanup and recovery efforts continue.
The severe storms have resulted in several fatalities, with reports of individuals being killed by falling debris, electrocution from downed power lines, and drowning in floodwaters. The governor has expressed his condolences to the families of those who have lost their lives and has pledged to do everything in his power to support those affected by the storms.
In addition to the loss of life, the severe storms have caused significant damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure throughout Ohio. Many residents are now facing the daunting task of rebuilding and repairing their properties in the aftermath of the storms.
Emergency response teams, including first responders, utility workers, and volunteers, are working tirelessly to assess the damage and provide assistance to those in need. The Ohio National Guard has been mobilized to help with cleanup efforts and ensure the safety of residents in affected areas.
Governor DeWine has emphasized the importance of preparedness and urged residents to take precautions to protect themselves and their families during severe weather events. He has also encouraged residents to stay informed by monitoring weather alerts and following the guidance of local authorities.
As Ohio begins the process of recovering from the devastation caused by the severe storms, Governor DeWine has assured residents that the state government will do everything possible to support those affected and help them rebuild their lives. The declaration of a state of emergency is a critical step in ensuring that resources are available to assist with recovery efforts and ensure the safety and well-being of all Ohioans.
