GIBSON COUNTY, IN (WFIE) -
Gibson County was ground zero for severe storms that rolled through Tuesday evening, there were injuries and plenty of damage right in the heart of the Sweet Corn Festival.
A declaration of emergency is expected to be signed this morning. Firefighters and energy crews are working through the night.
Over 60 people were caught in the hail storm, many had cuts and bruises. One woman was taken to the hospital.
Another concern, crews are working to get a generator to a nursing home where 80 to 90 residents are without air conditioning.
If they can't get a generator to them they will have to be moved possibly to Toyota. The fire chief says they are also working to get a generator for the town's water plant.
Right now they have enough water in the towers to last a few days.
A propane tank leak caused evacuations on the east side of town yesterday evening.
It is now secure and everyone is allowed back into their homes.
Streets are open only to local traffic. Many of them are one lane because of damage.
A curfew expired at 6 a.m. but will likely be put back into effect again from 10 p.m. Wednesday night to 6 a.m. Thursday morning.
The fire house is the main headquarters for everything. Clean-up volunteers are invited to help but you have to sign in.
The red cross is here also, they plan to offer shelter today to those who need it.
The next emergency meeting is at 8 a.m. at the fire house. 14 news will be there and we plan on streaming that meeting live right here at 14news.com.
14 NEWS UPDATE:
Oakland City officials held an emergency this morning at 8. They announced a declaration of emergency in Oakland City following last night's storms.
Officials say plan for possibly two days without power in some areas of the city.
They announced that a Red Cross shelter will be set up at the Oakland City University Student Life building. Area residents can go there if they need Red Cross assistance or need to get out of the heat. The Red Cross will be providing snacks and drinks at the Service Center.
They also let people know that food and drinks will available for anyone who needs it at the fire station and city park.
We also learned that the nursing home in Oakland City will not be evacuated. Officials say they are keeping a close eye on residents and bringing in generators.
Officials say downtown buildings are being evaluated and are asking people to stay off the streets so Oakland City officials can get things back to normal as soon as possible.
They're also asking citizens to conserve as much water as possible.
Oakland City residents should call (812) 749-4037 for any issues or questions. That's the fire station.
Another meeting will be held at noon today. We'll keep you posted.
14 NEWS UPDATE:
Oakland City fire chief says volunteers cleaning up debris will have bracelets on. Officials urge homeowners to turn away those without bracelets.
City officials announced their action plan, assessment teams are still out but can't do work until the power company gives the "OK".
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Power crews are working to get lines repaired and power restored on campus of Oakland City University.
Main St. Damage in Oakland City.
Roads closed for debris and downed power lines.
