Indiana Declares State of Emergency in Response to Severe Weather Events

Governor Mike Braun declared a state of disaster emergency on Friday, impacting 63 counties in Indiana due to recent severe storms. The declaration follows incidents of flooding, severe weather, tornados, and a derecho from June 6 to June 18. Affected areas include Lake, Porter, LaPorte, Marion, Tippecanoe, Jasper, and St. Joseph counties.

Cleanup efforts continue in the wake of the storms, as illustrated by the ongoing work at Andrean High School in Merrillville. The school suffered significant damage from a tornado.

“Many Hoosier communities were impacted by the severe weather that swept through our state this week. This emergency declaration ensures that every available state resource is mobilized quickly to support response efforts, help local governments address urgent needs, and help Hoosiers recover,” stated Braun.

The emergency remains effective for 30 days, enabling the Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS) to offer financial aid via the State Disaster Relief Fund. The Lake County Board of Commissioners issued a local disaster emergency declaration earlier in the week.

According to the Board’s declaration, five tornados affected Lake County on June 11, damaging areas such as Cedar Lake, Schneider, St. John, Gary, Hobart, and parts of Lake County. The declaration authorizes county services to exercise full emergency authority to protect lives and property.

“All public offices and employees of Lake County are hereby directed to exercise the utmost diligence in the discharge of duties required of them for the duration of the emergency and in execution of emergency laws, regulations, and directives — state and local,” the declaration states.

President of the Board of Commissioners, Michael Repay, clarified that the declaration adheres to state and federal rules, making the county eligible for possible funding. However, funding is not guaranteed.

“The people and businesses affected are due relief, and the Board of Commissioners stands with the victims of this natural disaster,” Repay commented.

The Porter County Emergency Management Agency has requested IDHS assistance for damage assessments due to the June 11 storms. Redeemed data will help determine if financial thresholds for aid are met. Residents can report damage by contacting Indiana 211.

Reported damages from the storms included several tornadoes in the Indiana and Illinois area, leading to power outages for thousands. A notable EF3 tornado, with wind speeds between 136 and 165 mph, severely impacted the Kouts area.

Tragically, a couple from Palos Hills passed away from carbon monoxide poisoning due to a generator used in a power outage during the storm.