DRONE FOOTAGE: Tornado confirmed to have hit Gary, shelter available for those impacted
GARY, Ind. -- The National Weather Service is reporting an EF-1 Tornado officially hit in Gary last night (March 19).
"Preliminary information from our survey team indicates a tornado of EF-1 intensity impacted parts of Gary," NWS said. "Survey work continues and this information will likely continue to be updated."
Indiana State Senator Mark Spencer (D-Gary) gave the following statement after the storm damaged Frankie Woods McCullough Academy and other structures in Northwest Indiana.
"First and foremost, I want to thank our first responders.
These brave men and women addressed this significant situation head on, and their dedication to our communities saved lives last night. Though we are blessed as a community that this storm resulted in no loss of life, my heart goes out to all of those whose lives were nevertheless upended in a matter of moments.
I am grateful that we have strong local leadership in Mayor Eddie Melton and Gary Community School Corporation Superintendent Dr. Yvonne Stokes as we navigate the impact to the Gary community and our schools.
I am confident that our community will navigate this together and be there for each other as we rebuild."
City officials say, for those impacted by the storm, the Monroe Center (219-501-8766), at 4101 Washington St., is open for residents in need of an emergency shelter and city officials are collaborating with the American Red Cross to ensure all residents have shelter.