Logan County, Ohio – Severe storms accompanied by likely tornadoes swept through various central US states, causing significant damage to homes and businesses and claiming the lives of at least three individuals. Authorities anticipate that the death toll could increase as they continue assessing the aftermath of the destructive weather event. The storms left a trail of devastation in Kentucky, Indiana, and Arkansas, with suspected tornadoes also reported in Illinois and Missouri.
Chief Deputy Joe Kopus from the Logan County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the three deaths in Logan County, Ohio, where the storms wreaked havoc. Authorities in Winchester, Indiana reported numerous significant injuries following a suspected tornado, prompting ongoing search and rescue efforts in the area. Despite the destruction, no fatalities were reported as of Friday morning.
Winchester Mayor Bob McCoy described the overwhelming experience of hearing the tornado strike, causing him and his wife to take shelter in a closet. The tornado inflicted damage on a Walmart store and a Taco Bell in the area. Travel restrictions were imposed, limiting access to emergency management workers only.
In Selma, Indiana, emergency management officials observed that nearly half of the town’s structures sustained damage from a possible tornado. Though minor injuries were reported, significant destruction was evident. Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb acknowledged the impact of severe weather across the state, with emergency response personnel dispatched to affected areas.
Throughout the Kentucky, Indiana, and Ohio regions, emergency crews continued search and rescue operations following reports of multiple injuries and widespread damage. Significant destruction was observed in Lakeview, Ohio, where homes and businesses, including a laundromat, were severely affected by the tornado. Displaced individuals were offered shelter as assessment teams surveyed the area for further damage.
Authorities in Arkansas confirmed a suspected tornado in Hot Springs Village, resulting in damage to the retirement community. National Weather Service meteorologist Erik Green highlighted the clear evidence of a tornado in the area, prompting assessment teams to conduct further investigations. In the face of this natural disaster, communities in the affected regions rallied together to provide support and aid to those impacted.