Storms slammed Kosciusko County again last night, bringing several reports of tree damage, 60 mph winds and possibly a rain-wrapped tornado touchdown near Mentone. According to storm data collected by the central dispatch center, Kosciusko County experienced four storm damage calls, nine calls on electrical/power lines down, one report of a disabled vehicle and 12 road hazards. The National Weather Service Northern Indiana Office has forecasters out onsite today assessing the storm damage and determining if a tornado touched down. According to NWS Forecaster and Media Director Mark Steinwedel, southwest to southcentral Kosciusko County near Mentone appears to have been hit the hardest locally. Forecasters will have verification by the end of today, as signal strength on the NWS radar could not confirm a twister. Several calls came into the NWS from southeast Huntington County about a possible tornado there. Forecasters are assessing the damage there today, after reviewing the radar signature that came through last night. The NWS suggests residents check weather.gov/iwx for the latest forecasts, watches, warnings and safety tips. Also, residents should make sure their weather radio is working properly with fresh batteries. Most of the storms will be overnight and NOAA weather radio can alert residents and wake them up if a warning is issued for their area. The NWS reminds the community that any time there is a threat of severe weather overnight, it is important to be prepared. Make sure you and your family have a plan in place and stay weather aware, the NWS suggests.
