DELAWARE, RANDOLPH COUNTIES, Ind. (NewsLink Indiana) -- Storm surveys, humanitarian aid and clean up efforts and are underway this weekend after severe weather ravaged parts of east central Indiana Thursday evening.
A storm survey conducted by the National Weather Service in Indianapolis Friday identified a long-track EF-3 tornado from Selma across Winchester and into Ohio. NWS estimates that winds peaked up to 165 miles and the tornado reached a maximum width of 700 yards while on the ground for 25 miles. NWS also reported 38 injuries and no deaths from the storm.
NewsLink Indiana crews surveyed the damage in both Selma and Winchester, two of the hardest hit towns, on Friday.
Selma
According to a NWS report, the tornado started northwest of Selma, then moved east southeast through town. NewsLink Indiana crews observed the main area of damage in Selma ranges across East Jackson Street.
As of Saturday morning, over 100 volunteers gathered at Selma Elementary School to help clean up efforts around town. In a Facebook post Saturday afternoon, the town is calling it "an amazing turnout already" with plans for efforts to continue for several more hours.
Winchester
The tornado continued into Winchester sustaining damage along State Road 32. Much of the damage in Winchester was seen by NewsLink Indiana crews near Greenville Avenue. NWS will further evaluate damages to the Taco Bell that once stood on East Greenville Pike on Saturday.
According to a Facebook post, volunteers in Winchester gathered around 8 a.m. Saturday at Winchester Community High School. The city is asking those who are bringing food or supplies into heavily impacted areas to get permission from Indiana State Police near entry points, per Facebook.
This story is developing. Check back for more updates.
