Story perspectives

100 mph derecho knocks out power for 700,000 Midwest residents

8/13/2026

Summary

Derecho Devastates Midwest

A derecho swept the Midwest on August 11, 2026, causing widespread damage.
A 4-year-old boy died in Geneva Township, Indiana, while two deaths were reported in Portage, Indiana, and Roseville, Ohio.
Over 700,000 customers lost power while eastern Indiana received over 10 inches of rain.
Chicago-area wind gusts reached 100 mph during the storm.
Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine declared emergencies in Perry and Muskingum and activated a National Guard unit.

Summary

Braun Flood Response

Governor Mike Braun ordered agencies, including Homeland Security and Natural Resources, to coordinate flood response.
INDOT closed State Road 38 west of U.S. 35 after a washout blocked lanes.
Wayne County issued a Level 3 travel warning banning vehicles.
Shelters opened at Cambridge City Fire Department and Golay Community Center for residents.
The Emergency Operations Center rose to Level 3, prompting the American Red Cross to ready shelters and charging stations.

History

Historical Context

In April-October 1993 the Mississippi and Missouri rivers flooded multiple states, killing 50 people and causing $12-16 billion in damage, prompting President Bill Clinton to declare a federal disaster. The August 11 2026 derecho that tore through Indiana and Ohio, cutting power for over 700,000 customers, mirrors that historic Midwest storm pattern and spurs federal grant funding for resilient infrastructure.

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Derecho Devastates Midwest

A derecho swept the Midwest on August 11, 2026, causing widespread damage.
A 4-year-old boy died in Geneva Township, Indiana, while two deaths were reported in Portage, Indiana, and Roseville, Ohio.
Over 700,000 customers lost power while eastern Indiana received over 10 inches of rain.
Chicago-area wind gusts reached 100 mph during the storm.
Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine declared emergencies in Perry and Muskingum and activated a National Guard unit.

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