Ohio Governor Declares State of Emergency in 11 Counties After Severe Weather Strikes
In a swift response to the severe weather that swept across central Ohio last week, Governor Mike DeWine has declared a state of emergency in 11 counties and activated the Ohio National Guard for assistance, particularly in Logan County, which was hard hit by the storms.
12:23 PM EDT, March 18, 2024
The declaration, announced on Sunday by Gov. DeWine, encompasses Auglaize, Crawford, Darke, Delaware, Hancock, Licking, Mercer, Miami, Richland, Union counties, and Logan County. This move orders all relevant state departments and agencies to offer services, equipment, supplies, and personnel to support the ongoing response and recovery efforts, highlighting the state's commitment to aiding its affected residents.
In Logan County, the severity of the situation was underscored by the confirmation of three fatalities, illustrating the destructive power of the storms that hit the area. The Ohio National Guard has been mobilized to aid in clearing storm debris on public property, a crucial step towards restoring normalcy for the community.
The storms have caused devastation in Ohio and left their mark across parts of Kentucky, Indiana, and Arkansas. In an Indiana community alone, around 40 people were injured, and dozens of homes suffered damage, showcasing the widespread impact of the severe weather. Additionally, tornadoes were reported in Illinois and Missouri, adding to the toll of this natural disaster.
The National Weather Service has confirmed nine tornadoes in Ohio, including an EF-3 tornado that began in southern Auglaize County near Fryburg and barreled through the Lakeview area in northern Logan County. EF-3 tornadoes are known for their formidable strength, with winds reaching between 136 and 165 mph, posing significant danger to life and property.
Moreover, EF-2 tornadoes, which have 111 to 135 mph wind speeds, were also confirmed in central Union County, Darke and Miami counties, and the Crawford/Richland County areas. These storms' widespread and varied impact highlights severe weather's unpredictable and destructive nature.
Governor DeWine's emergency declaration is a vital step in the state's efforts to recover from the storm damage. By mobilizing state resources and the National Guard, Ohio aims to address the immediate needs of the affected communities swiftly and begin rebuilding and healing. The state's response to this crisis demonstrates a commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens in the face of natural disasters.
