Columbus, Ohio – Multiple deaths have been reported in the aftermath of severe storms that swept through parts of Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana Thursday night. The storms, accompanied by strong winds and possible tornadoes, led to a series of tornado warnings issued in Ohio from 8:30 p.m. to 10:15 p.m. Three confirmed deaths in Logan County have prompted clean-up efforts slated to begin Friday.
The Logan County Coroner’s Office confirmed the fatalities in Logan County, with reports of widespread damage including downed trees and damaged homes in Lakewood, Midway, and Orchard Island. Mary Rutan Hospital in Bellefontaine treated 19 patients with weather-related injuries, all of whom suffered bone fractures and concussions.
In the aftermath of the devastation, Washington Township Police Chief Michael Thompson described the scene as chaotic, with extensive damage visible throughout the affected areas. Efforts to assess the damage were hindered by the magnitude of destruction caused by the storms.
Indian Lake High School in Ohio became a temporary triage center and shelter after the tornado sirens blared during a concert, prompting evacuations. The community rallied with an outpouring of support, including medical and mental health professionals responding to assist those affected.
In Delaware County, Big Walnut and Olentangy schools closed, with reports of roof damage at a middle school and wrecked scoreboards at athletic fields. The county experienced widespread power outages and property damage due to lightning strikes, downed power lines, and fallen trees.
In neighboring Indiana, a tornado impacted Winchester, resulting in numerous significant injuries, prompting an urgent response from local authorities. The state’s emergency operations center was activated to coordinate rescue and recovery efforts alongside the deployment of search and rescue teams.
Kentucky also felt the effects of the severe weather, with Trimble County sustaining damage to at least 50 structures, including homes. Governor Andy Beshear confirmed a tornado touching down along the Indiana border and urged residents to stay vigilant as further storms were forecasted across the state.
As the region grapples with the aftermath of the destructive storms, emergency services remain on high alert, coordinating response efforts and assessing the full extent of the damage. Severe weather warnings continue to be issued as residents brace for additional inclement weather throughout the affected areas.