- Ohio: At least 3 people were killed by tornadoes in Ohio. The extent of the damage and injuries are still being reported.
- Indiana: Winchester, Indiana experienced significant damage from a possible tornado. Homes and buildings were flattened, causing multiple injuries. There were earlier reports of fatalities, but those were not confirmed by authorities.
- Arkansas: A probable tornado struck the retirement community of Hot Springs Village. There were no reported deaths or injuries, but baseball-sized hail and destroyed buildings were reported.
In Indiana, the town of Winchester was severely impacted by a tornado with a preliminary EF3 rating (winds of 136-165 mph). This storm caused extensive damage to homes and businesses, including the complete destruction of a Taco Bell. Thankfully, early reports of fatalities were incorrect, but 38 people were injured, with 12 requiring hospitalization. Three of those injured are reportedly in critical condition.
The storm system also reached Arkansas, where a probable tornado struck the Hot Springs Village retirement community. While no deaths or injuries were reported, significant property damage and baseball-sized hail were documented.
While Arkansas thankfully escaped fatalities, the reported baseball-sized hail in Hot Springs Village highlights the multifaceted danger of these storm systems. Large hail can cause severe property damage and pose a risk to anyone caught outside.
Updates from Officials:
- Ohio: Governor Eric Holcomb has pledged state resources to assist with recovery efforts.
- Indiana: Governor Eric Holcomb and state agencies have also pledged full support for Winchester’s recovery. The Indiana State Police and Indiana Department of Homeland Security are working to assist.
False Tornado Death Rumors Circulating – Official Update
There has been a spread of false information on social media regarding injuries and deaths from yesterday’s tornado. To clarify, there have been no reported deaths in Randolph County. There were 38 injuries, with 12 requiring transport to neighboring hospitals. Search and rescue teams were deployed, and a thorough damage assessment will begin at daybreak. Power outages remain an issue, with approximately 4,756 customers affected.
Bottom Line
The past 24 hours have brought tragedy and devastation to the Midwest. Ohio communities are reeling from powerful tornadoes that claimed at least three lives, leaving a trail of destruction around Indian Lake and Orchard Island. Meanwhile, in Winchester, Indiana, residents are picking up the pieces of their town after a powerful EF3 tornado ripped through.
We continue to refine our forecasting and warning systems, but these events remind us that severe weather can strike with devastating force. Our thoughts are with those affected by these storms.