Indiana Governor Declares State of Emergency for 63 Counties Following Severe Weather

Governor Mike Braun has declared a state of disaster emergency for 63 counties across Indiana. This follows the impact of recent storms, including flooding, severe weather, tornadoes, and a derecho from June 6 to June 18. The declaration covers counties such as Lake, Porter, LaPorte, Marion, Tippecanoe, Jasper, and St. Joseph.

Cleanup efforts are ongoing, as seen with a truck depositing a dumpster at the heavily damaged Andrean High School in Merrillville on June 15, 2026. The school was struck by a tornado last week.

“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,” Braun stated.

The emergency declaration, lasting 30 days, allows the Indiana Department of Homeland Security to offer financial aid through the State Disaster Relief Fund program. The Lake County Board of Commissioners approved a local disaster emergency declaration as well, following significant storm activity.

Five tornadoes, categorized as three EF0, one EF2, and one EF3, affected areas like Cedar Lake, Schneider, St. John, Gary, Hobart, and unincorporated parts of Lake County on June 11. The local declaration enforces emergency measures under Indiana code to protect lives and property.

President of the Board, Michael Repay, emphasized that this declaration aligns with state and federal guidelines, making the county eligible for funds, though not guaranteeing them. “The people and businesses affected are due relief and the Board of Commissioners stand with the victims of this natural disaster,” Repay emphasized.

The Porter County Emergency Management Agency sought assistance from the Indiana Department of Homeland Security to assess storm-related property damage on June 11. Damage assessments help determine if assistance thresholds are met.

Residents in Lake and Porter counties are urged to report damages via Indiana 211 at 866-211-9966 or online at in211.communityos.org. Agricultural damage should be directed to Purdue Extension.

Confirmed tornadoes on June 11 also affected Illinois, leaving thousands without power. An EF3 tornado, with winds between 136 and 165 mph, caused significant damage in Kouts. Tragically, a Palos Hills couple died from carbon monoxide poisoning due to a generator used after losing power in Portage, officials reported.