Winchester, Indiana – Severe storms and tornadoes struck East Central Indiana and Kentucky, leaving a path of destruction on Thursday night. Homes were flattened, people were injured, and extensive damage was reported in Delaware and Randolph counties. The National Weather Service confirmed that an EF-3 tornado caused widespread destruction in Winchester, Indiana.
Survey teams from the NWS inspected the storm damage in Winchester, indicating a high likelihood of a tornado touchdown in the area. The tornado hit Winchester, creating significant damage. Officials also confirmed that at least two tornadoes touched down in Madison and Hanover, Indiana, around 2:30 p.m.
As of Friday morning, no confirmed deaths were reported in Indiana due to the storms. While initial reports mentioned three deaths in Winchester, officials have not corroborated any fatalities. However, Ohio reported three fatalities as a result of the storm.
Reports indicate that Randolph and Delaware Counties were the hardest hit by the severe weather system that passed through on Thursday evening. Winchester and Selma reported serious damage, with at least 22 homes possibly destroyed and over 100 structures damaged. In Selma, about half of the town’s structures sustained damage.
Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb confirmed that at least 38 people were injured in Winchester, with three potentially in critical condition. Emergency response crews evacuated a nursing home due to power loss and transported several residents to nearby hospitals.
To further assess the aftermath of the storm, the Indiana Department of Homeland Security urged residents to avoid affected areas. Downed power lines, trees, and debris pose significant safety risks. Indiana Task Force 1 deployed for search and rescue operations, with more resources expected from state and federal levels.
People affected by the storm in Winchester can find support at emergency shelters set up by the Red Cross at Winchester High School. Financial donations for relief efforts are being directed to the Community Foundation of Randolph County and Second Harvest Food Bank.
Residents of Randolph and Jefferson counties are asked to report severe storm damage to Indiana 211 for damage estimates. Agricultural damage should be reported to Purdue Extension. Schools in the Randolph Central and Liberty-Perry School Districts remained closed on Friday.
Winchester, the county seat of Randolph County, experienced severe damage but has been fortunate in avoiding any reported deaths. The community is coming together to address the aftermath of the devastating storm.