Columbus, Ohio – Multiple fatalities occurred as devastating storms and possible tornadoes swept through central Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana on Thursday night. The severe weather brought about a series of tornado warnings in Ohio between 8:30 p.m. and 10:15 p.m., linked to strong winds and unconfirmed tornado activity. In Logan County, Ohio, the Coroner’s Office confirmed three deaths, with clean-up efforts set to commence on Friday.
Reports of a “mass casualty event” came from the Logan County Emergency Management Agency, highlighting numerous downed trees and damaged homes in the area. The Washington Township police confirmed fatalities in Lakewood, Midway, and Orchard Island as a result of the storms.
Mary Rutan Hospital in Bellefontaine saw 19 patients with weather-related injuries, all of which were bone fractures and concussions. The devastation extended to Ohio’s Logan and Delaware counties, leaving widespread damage in its wake.
Chief Michael Thompson of the Washington Township police described the chaos and damage observed in the aftermath of the storms, emphasizing the need for assistance and assessment of the destruction.
The Indian Lake High School in Ohio quickly transformed into a triage center and public shelter following the tornado warnings, providing refuge for those displaced from their homes. Schools in the Indian Lake and Delaware County areas were closed, with reports of significant damage and power outages.
In Indiana, the town of Winchester faced “many significant injuries” due to an intense tornado. The Indiana State Police Superintendent mentioned the need for search and rescue efforts and assistance from Indiana Task Force One in the aftermath of the disaster.
Kentucky also experienced storm damage, with at least 50 structures affected in Trimble County. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear reported a tornado touching down along the Indiana state border, causing minor injuries and significant property damage.
Severe weather warnings extended from northeast Texas to Indiana and Ohio, prompting emergency response coordination at both state and local levels. The situation remains critical as communities work towards recovery and restoration efforts.
The Associated Press provided valuable contributions to this report.