INDIANA — Indiana communities are beginning recovery efforts after multiple tornadoes were confirmed as powerful storms swept across the state Thursday, damaging homes, businesses and infrastructure while leaving thousands without electricity.
The National Weather Service confirmed at least one tornado near Hebron in northwestern Indiana and reported additional tornado damage in the region as survey teams continue to assess the storm’s path. Officials are expected to spend several days evaluating damage and determining how many tornadoes ultimately touched down across Indiana.
One of the hardest-hit areas was Merrillville, about 33 miles southeast of Chicago, where officials reported extensive destruction. Homes and other buildings sustained significant damage, trees and power lines were knocked down, and part of a high school roof was torn away during the storm.
Emergency crews from multiple agencies worked through the night conducting damage assessments, clearing debris and checking on residents in affected neighborhoods. In Hebron, first responders also spent overnight hours responding to storm-related damage and helping secure impacted areas.
The storms left approximately 144,000 Indiana homes and businesses without power Friday morning, according to PowerOutage.us. Utility crews are working to restore service as quickly as possible.
The severe weather also affected transportation across the region, contributing to flight delays and cancellations at several major airports, including those serving Chicago.
Despite the widespread damage, there were no immediate reports of deaths or life-threatening injuries linked to the tornadoes and severe storms in Indiana. Recovery efforts remain underway as officials continue surveying affected communities and residents begin cleanup operations.
