Indiana Governor Braun to assess storm damage and consider statewide emergency declaration

Governor Mike Braun is expected to issue a statewide emergency declaration in Indiana following a series of severe storms and a derecho that caused widespread destruction across the state. The storms, which included apparent tornadoes and wind gusts reaching 99 mph at the Gary airport, resulted in significant damage to homes, schools, and infrastructure.

In Newton County, an elderly couple was reported dead after their home was destroyed by a large tornado. In Lake County, power outages affected nearly 95% of the population, with utility restoration potentially taking until the weekend. The Indiana National Guard has been placed on standby to assist with recovery efforts, and the Indiana Department of Homeland Security is leading the state response in coordination with various departments.

Local officials in Gary have declared a local state of emergency, and Governor Braun indicated that a statewide declaration may facilitate a federal declaration from FEMA.