Lake County Declares Local Disaster Emergency After Tornadoes

The Lake County Board of Commissioners formally declared a local disaster emergency on Wednesday following devastating storms. These storms included five tornadoes that occurred last week, classified as three EF0, one EF2, and one EF3. The tornadoes impacted areas such as Cedar Lake, Schneider, St. John, Gary, Hobart, and unincorporated regions of Lake County.

The emergency declaration mandates that county services enforce all necessary emergency protocols as outlined under Indiana Code. This is crucial for safeguarding lives and properties during this crisis. Public offices and officers in Lake County are urged to diligently fulfill their emergency duties as per the declaration.

Michael Repay, President of the Board of Commissioners, stated that the declaration aligns with state and federal standards. While it qualifies the county for state and federal funds, it does not assure them. “The people and businesses affected deserve relief, and the Board of Commissioners stands with the victims of this natural disaster,” Repay emphasized.

Visual evidence, such as damaged silos in Hebron from Thursday’s tornado, underlines the storm’s impact. Meanwhile, the Porter County Emergency Management Agency has sought help from the Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS) to evaluate storm-inflicted damage. IDHS will assess properties in Porter County to verify if assistance criteria are met, using personnel identified by IDHS clothing and credentials.

Residents of Lake and Porter counties should report severe storm damage using Indiana 211 by calling 866-211-9966 or visiting in211.communityos.org. This data supports the damage assessment teams. Agricultural damage reports should be directed to the Purdue Extension.

A National Weather Service investigation confirmed tornadoes in Northwest Indiana and Illinois, which left thousands without electricity. Of the 29 tornadoes reported in these areas last week, significant tracks included an EF0 from St. John to Schererville, an EF2 from Merrillville to Hobart, an EF0 hitting Cedar Lake, another EF0 from Schneider to Hebron, and an EF3 from Hebron to Kouts. EF3 tornadoes have wind speeds estimated between 136 and 165 mph.

Tragically, after Thursday night’s storm, a couple from Palos Hills succumbed to carbon monoxide poisoning from a portable generator in Portage. They used the generator due to a power outage from the storm, as reported by local fire officials.