MARTIN COUNTY, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — The National Weather Service said the city of Loogootee and surrounding areas in Martin County saw widespread damage consistent with straight-line winds.
“I got a tree farm out there in the country and it’s just sad for me to see these trees that’s been there for 40 or 50 years and all of a sudden they’re just leveled in in one second you know and it’s just and also it’s a lot of clean up for everybody to get all cleaned up again and everything.” said Rick Bowling, resident of Loogootee.
This is one of several Indiana communities that saw damage caused by severe storms that moved through the area early Saturday morning. EF-1 tornados were observed in Parke and Daviess counties, along with the straight-line winds in Loogootee.
“Everybody has come together and I think we are living in very uncertain times so it’s kind of neat to see everyone just come together in prayer and willing to help out no matter what is needed.” said Stephanie Powell, resident of Loogootee.
Just northeast of Loogootee, Lark Ranch, sustained a lot of damage in the storms. Co-owner Adam Lark said no one was hurt and all the animals were ok. But he said the roofs were ripped off of two buildings and the front of one of their main barns caved in. They also have a lot of downed trees. Lark said they’ll focus first on cleaning up debris and then bring crews in for rebuilding and repairs. He said they have already been getting a lot of support from the community.
“Buildings can be blown away but the memories you are kind of here, here forever and that’s what that’s what we want to you know be able to bring back for people and you know make sure that we get rebuilt so that more memories can be made out here and we really appreciate everyone and all their support.” said Lark.
Lark stated they will open this Fall. He said they plan to start selling their season passes soon so that those proceeds can help fund their rebuilding efforts.
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