Powerful storms in US midwest leave three dead and 800,000 without power – The Guardian

Powerful storms in US midwest leave three dead and 800,000 without power  The Guardian

Winds of more than 80mph, severe flooding and tornadoes swept through Indiana, Ohio, Illinois and Kentucky Powerful storms swept across ⁠the midwest on Tuesday, leaving three dead and more than 800,000 without power in four states as winds gusts of more than 80mph (130km/h) tore down trees and power lines. ⁠In Indiana, a four-year-old child died after a tree fell on his ⁠home in Geneva Township and a person died in a suspected weather-related house explosion in Portage, a city about 30 miles south-east of Chicago. Mike ‌DeWine, Ohio’s governor, said one person died after flooding obstructed first responders from reaching the individual in Roseville. DeWine urged Ohioans to prepare for more dangerous storms as the National Weather Service warned of flash flooding, tornadoes and dangerous straight-line winds.

“I encourage everyone to pay close attention to local media reports and take these weather warnings seriously,” he said. “Even after the storms exit the state, flooding will remain a serious concern.” The National Weather Service’s storm prediction center said it had recorded straight-line winds, known as derecho, at speeds of 99mph in Gary, Indiana. DeWine also signed a proclamation declaring a state of emergency in Perry and Muskingum counties. Severe flooding caused residents to be evacuated by swift water rescue teams. “Even after ​the ​storms exit the state, flooding will remain