Central US Tornadoes Claim 3 Lives, Cause Massive Destruction

TL/DR –

Several tornadoes tore through parts of Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana, and Arkansas, killing three people and injuring dozens more. The Indian Lake area in Ohio’s Logan County was one of the worst affected, with three people killed and many homes and businesses damaged. In Indiana, a tornado injured 38 people and damaged or destroyed approximately 130 homes and a restaurant.

Ohio Tornado Leaves Trail of Destruction, Claims Lives

Blaine Schmidt, a resident of Lakeview, Ohio, was left picking through the debris of his home after a devastating tornado tore through the area. He managed to salvage a guitar and some diapers while his house, though damaged, remained standing, unlike the one next door.

“I’m lucky to be alive,” stated Schmidt, who took shelter in a bathtub with his roommate during the storm. Thursday night’s tornadoes wreaked havoc across Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana, and Arkansas, causing injuries to about 40 people, killing three and resulting in massive property damage.

Logan County’s Indian Lake area was hardest hit, with three fatalities reported by Sheriff Randy Dodds. The affected villages, popular for fishing and boating, witnessed extensive damage.

During Friday’s search efforts, no additional victims were found, despite massive property damage, gas leaks, and fallen trees blocking access. “The damage is so extensive, it’s surprising only three people died,” shared Sheriff Dodds.

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine noted it was fortunate the storm did not strike on a summer weekend, potentially causing greater casualties. Sandy Smith, another Lakeview resident, shared her experience of taking shelter in a laundry room during the storm, only to emerge and find the roof had collapsed.

Businesses including a campground, RV park, and laundromat suffered significant damage. Hospital spokesperson Laura Miller confirmed around 25 people were treated for injuries, mostly broken bones and internal injuries.

Weather officials are still assessing the extent of the damage and confirming the tornadoes. In Indiana, a tornado injured 38 people in Winchester, damaging around 130 homes and a Taco Bell restaurant. Residents reported receiving ample warning to seek shelter.

In Kentucky’s Milton, a tornado caused injuries to two people and damaged up to 100 homes. In Arkansas, a tornado hit the retirement community of Hot Springs Village but caused no reported injuries or fatalities.

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