Severe Tornadoes Strike Randolph and Delaware Counties in Indiana

A destructive tornado hit Randolph and Delaware counties in Indiana, devastating communities like Selma and Winchester, as confirmed by the Indiana State Police. The tornadoes spawned from two storm systems that swept across the region, causing extensive damage to homes and businesses and leaving thousands without power in both counties.

Indiana State Police Superintendent Doug Carter, in a late-night press conference, indicated that efforts were still underway to verify any casualties resulting from the severe weather, retracting earlier reports that cited three fatalities. Search and rescue operations are ongoing, with authorities fearing residents may still be trapped in buildings.

Moreover, the Indiana Task Force 1 has been deployed to assist in the rescue efforts in both Selma and Winchester. As the situation unfolds, more clarity on any potential deaths is expected by the early hours of Friday.

The Indiana Department of Homeland Security reported the evacuation of a nursing home in Winchester and noted significant damage to several businesses in the city, including a Walmart and Taco Bell. At the same time, Randolph County has been placed under a travel warning, limiting travel to emergency personnel only.

Randolph County Sheriff Art Moystner, who was briefly trapped in his home during the storms, confirmed the impact on local businesses and emphasized the need for caution when navigating the affected areas. Randolph Central Schools and Randolph Southern School Corporation have announced closures as cleanup efforts ensue.

Various entities, including the National Weather Service and Indiana Michigan, are actively involved in assessing the damage and power outages. The Winchester Community High School has been opened to provide emergency shelter, while temporary aiding centers have been set up across the region.

Governor Eric Holcomb expressed solidarity with the impacted communities, particularly in Winchester, highlighting the resilience of its residents in the face of adversity. Delaware County also witnessed significant storm damage, with resources deployed to evaluate the extent of destruction and provide relief to affected residents.

Emergency response teams, including the Liberty Township Fire Department and the American Red Cross, are working to support those in need, as schools and local authorities coordinate to address the aftermath of the tornadoes. The Delaware County EMA has enacted emergency measures to ensure safety and facilitate recovery in the wake of the natural disaster.