UPDATE: Bartholomew Co. Emergency Management assess storm damage in Northern Columbus

COLUMBUS, Ind. -Bartholomew County Emergency Management received reports of storm damage in the north Columbus area following last night's thunderstorms on Friday, August 14.

Shortly before the damage reports were received, the National Weather Service issued a Special Weather Statement for a storm cell moving through northern Bartholomew County. The statement indicated the potential for a brief downburst capable of producing wind gusts up to 50 MPH. The reported damage aligns with the area where numerous trees and power lines were subsequently reported down.

Preliminary reports indicate that 7–10 utility poles were snapped, primarily along Rocky Ford Road. In addition, multiple trees, large limbs, and power lines were reported down along Trestle Drive, Cunningham Drive, and Westenedge Drive, generally in the area north of 25th Street to Rocky Ford Road, including the vicinity of the Columbus Municipal Airport.

One of the damaged utility poles supported a City of Columbus outdoor warning siren located near Westenedge Drive and River Road. When the utility pole failed, it also caused damage to the warning siren itself. The extent of the damage is currently being evaluated.

Several residents also reported damage to fencing and siding at their homes.

Duke Energy responded overnight and continues restoration efforts and repairs to the damaged electrical infrastructure.

No injuries have been reported

According to the Columbus Fire Department, most of the damage related to storm related issues occurred north of 25th Street. In addition, according to Columbus Police, a tornado siren was blown down by the storm. As of 8 a.m., Duke Energy is reporting 17 outages in Bartholomew County with 77 customers out of power. The estimated time of restoration is 2 p.m. 

As of 950 a.m., according to Bartholomew County Emergency Management, the current high water / road closures are:

• 400 N (Tinkey Bridge) – Closed

  800 S – Closed between SR 11 and US 31

  Tellman Rd – Closed between Indianapolis Rd and N 200 W

  Old River Rd – Closed between River Rd and 550 N for multiple trees down

Parks with High Water Signs Posted

Mill Race Park

Noblitt Park

Additional rainfall is expected this morning, and some roads may become flooded again, requiring additional closures.