Leaders Survey Indiana Damage

About a week ago, severe storms and likely tornadoes tore through northwest Indiana, leaving a trail of destruction across Jasper, Newton, and Starke counties. The impact has been both immediate and heartbreaking, with lives lost, homes destroyed, and entire communities now facing the long road to recovery.

Lives Lost and Communities Shaken

In Newton County’s Lake Village, the storm proved deadly. According to FOX59, Edward Kozlowski, 89, and Arlene Kozlowski, 84, were killed when a tornado struck their community. First responders discovered the couple while searching through heavily damaged areas for survivors.

Emergency crews described the scene as overwhelming. FOX59 reported that multiple homes were destroyed, with others suffering significant structural damage after what officials called a “direct hit.” Search and rescue operations began immediately and continued in the days that followed, with additional teams deployed to ensure no one was left unaccounted for.

Local officials urged residents to stay clear of impacted areas, allowing first responders to safely conduct rescue and recovery efforts. FOX59 also reported that North Newton High School opened as a temporary shelter, providing a safe place for displaced residents.

Leaders on the Ground Assessing the Damage

In the aftermath of the storm, state and federal leaders traveled to Lake Village to assess the devastation firsthand. State Reps. Michael Aylesworth, Beau Baird, and Kendell Culp joined Congressman Jim Baird and State Sen. Rick Niemeyer to survey the damage and meet with local officials.

Congressman Jim Baird and State Rep. Beau Baird were central figures during the visit, speaking with residents and observing the widespread destruction. Their presence highlighted the importance of coordination between state and federal partners as communities begin to rebuild.

Walking through damaged neighborhoods, officials saw firsthand the storm’s impact—homes reduced to debris, trees uprooted, and power infrastructure severely compromised.

State Declares Disaster Emergency

In response to the widespread destruction, Gov. Mike Braun issued an executive order declaring a disaster emergency in Jasper, Newton, and Starke counties. The order activates state resources to support local recovery efforts and will remain in effect for 30 days.

The declaration allows eligible residents to access assistance through the State Disaster Relief Fund and directs the Indiana Department of Homeland Security to coordinate response and recovery operations. It also calls on state agencies to provide personnel and resources to support emergency efforts.

The storms caused extensive damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure, while also knocking out power to more than 10,000 residents. Downed trees and power lines have made restoration efforts more challenging as crews work to bring electricity back online.

Recovery Efforts Underway

Emergency response teams remain active across the region, conducting damage assessments and assisting residents in need. Utility crews continue working to restore power, while local officials coordinate cleanup and debris removal.

Residents are encouraged to report storm damage and seek assistance through Indiana 211 by calling 2-1-1 or visiting the service online.

While the devastation is significant, the response has been equally determined. With leaders on the ground and recovery efforts gaining momentum, northwest Indiana is beginning the difficult process of rebuilding—one community at a time.