WINDHAM, OHIO—At approximately 6:45 p.m. on April 17, 2024, an EF1 tornado touched down near State Route 303 and Stanley Road in Windham Township, and traversed northeast over Byant Road, the Ohio Turnpike for four miles. The community is responding with support for affected families and neighborhoods.
The tornado’s path went north of the turnpike, impacting State Route 82 and Windham-Parkman Road. The severe weather damaged
property, closed roads, downed powerlines and disrupted traffic on the Ohio Turnpike. The National Weather Service walked the area Thursday, April 18, and verified there was a tornado.
The community has responded with support. Today the Renaissance Family Center of Windham, in partnership with the Salvation Army, established a community reception center. A lunch and dinner were available. The center is located at 9005 Wil Verne Dr., Windham.
Tomorrow, April 19, the Renaissance Center will be open again to provide meals from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. and 4:30-6 p.m. The community reception center will be a central location for families to learn about available resources from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Renaissance Center. In attendance will be:
Job and Family Services
Children’s Advantage
Family and Community Services
AxessPointe
United Way 211
Stay tuned for more information on the possibility of pantry items for families in need.
Numerous township and village agencies responded Wednesday night including Windham Township, Windham Village and Garrettsville Village. After assessing numerous homes in the area and overturned vehicles on the Ohio Turnpike, no injuries were reported.
That evening, emergency responders from state, local and county agencies established a unified command at Windham Townhall. Priorities remain to open up major transportation routes, utilities, and assess unmet needs of impacted community.
Portage County Emergency Management Agency staff completed damage assessment on Thursday, April 18. Property owners can also report damage online at the PC EMA website:
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Emergency Management agencies are charged with assessing damage to households, businesses and public infrastructure following natural, technological and man-made emergencies or catastrophic disasters. Doing an immediate survey of damage allows emergency managers to determine the extent of loss, suffering and harm to citizens, families and public infrastructure. If you have questions, call PC EMA at 330-297-3607.