Storm shelters open as severe weather threat continues

EVANSVILLE, Ind. (WFIE) - Storm shelters are available for those who may need them as severe weather rolls through the area.

According to the Fort Branch Fire Department, the fire station on West Vine will be open for shelter.

They currently do not have a set time for people to stop by, but officials are asking you to check back for updates.

Officials are also asking for people to park on the south side of the building, and not in front of the large overhead doors.

According to the Town of Fort Branch’s Facebook page, there’s also one opening at the Fort Branch Teen Center on Main Street.

The Owensville United Methodist Church is another option for you to seek shelter.

The Owensville Town Board says that’s at the corner of Brummitt and Third.

Officials say you will need to enter on the east side of the church, and sign-up on their sign-in sheet.

In Hopkins County, the Historic Courthouse on South Main Street will be open as a safe shelter at 5:30 p.m.

According to officials, people should enter through the basement doors located on the east side.

They say Dawson Springs High School will also be open. You can enter the high school by the lower level located by the teacher’s parking lot. The doors will be marked with reflective tape.

The Lake Grove Church on Lake Grove Loop in St. Charles will be open, while the Mt. Zion Baptist Church at 108 Burton Ln. in Earlington will have its basement open for visitors.

The Nebo Community Center on South Bernard Street will also be open.

Henderson County Schools officials say they are dismissing early.

They say that’s so school buses can safely be off of the roads before severe weather hits.

According to a social media post, the elementary schools will dismiss at 1:30 p.m., and the secondary schools will dismiss at 2:30 p.m.

Childcare will be open until 3:30 p.m.

In Hancock County, officials with South Hancock Fire Department say their station will be open as a shelter overnight.

Shelter locations for residents in Daviess County include Living Hope Community Church on Alexander Avenue and Owensboro Christian Church on New Hartford Road. Other options include the Daviess County Fiscal Courthouse, as well as St. Stephens Cathedral on Locust Street.

Our 14 News team caught up with EMA Director Cliff Weaver to discuss how people should prepare for the dangerous weather.

You can watch that full interview below.

Copyright 2023 WFIE. All rights reserved.