PENDLETON, Ind. (WTHR) — The National Weather Service has confirmed two tornados from a string of Memorial Day storms
First, they announced Tuesday an EF-2 tornado hit Pendleton Monday. A few hours later, they confirmed an EF-1 in Henry County south of Middletown.
The NWS is still working to confirm details on the storm, including path length in Pendleton.
The city has already begun the cleanup process as many resident wait for power to be restored in their homes. As of 3 p.m. on Monday about 1,500 to 2,000 people are still without power in Pendleton.
Cleanup and power being restored to some areas has allowed Pendleton Avenue to the east reopening. That will allow people to get back into their homes and begin the cleanup.
Overnight there were 10 to 15 people in the emergency shelter set up. The shelter is at Pendleton Heights High School located at 1 Arabian Drive, Pendleton, Ind. 46064. This shelter will remain open until further notice. Food, snacks and water will be provided while the shelter is open.
Madison County EMA has announced that the east side of Pendleton from SR 67 to Pendleton Avenue will be reopened by 6 p.m. Tuesday. Citizens who live east of Pendleton Avenue will be able to access their homes. The west side of Pendleton from Pendleton Avenue to Fall Creek will remain closed as crews work to clear streets and restore power.
There is only one report of an injury in the immediate aftermath of the storms. It was a cut to the forehead that just required quick treatment at the hospital and then they were released.
The city is not yet accepting volunteers for cleanup help, as there are still a number of hazards. On Wednesday, a volunteer reception area will be opened to process anyone wanting to help and then deploy and monitor them.
Tuesday afternoon, the Town of Pendleton announced on Facebook that donations can be made through the South Madison Community Foundation, with donations being matched "$2 for $1" by the Lilly Endowment. Click here for information on how to donate.