UPDATE: Bartholomew County assesses storm damage in north part of Columbus

COLUMBUS, Ind. -Bartholomew County Emergency Management (BCEM) received reports of storm damage in the north Columbus area following thunderstorms on Friday night, 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 damaged the warning siren. The extent of the damage is currently being evaluated.

Several residents also reported damage to fencing and siding at their homes. No injuries have been reported.

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

According to the Columbus Fire Department, most of the storm-related damage occurred north of 25th Street. As of 8 a.m., Duke Energy reports 17 outages in Bartholomew County and 77 customers without power. The estimated time of restoration is 2 p.m. 

As of 950 a.m. on Friday, BCEM says the current high water/road closures are:   

• C.R. 400N (Tinkey Bridge) – Closed
• C.R. 800S – Closed between S.R. 11 and U.S. 31
• Tellman Rd – Closed between Indianapolis Road and C.R. 200W
• Old River Rd – Closed between River Road and C.R. 550N (multiple trees down)

Parks with High Water Signs Posted   

• Mill Race Park
• Noblitt Park

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