EF-1 Tornado, Flooding, and Damaging Winds Strike Region in Last Week’s Storms

Severe storms moved through northeast Indiana and northwest Ohio from the evening of March 31 into the early morning hours of April 1, bringing heavy rain, damaging winds, and at least one confirmed tornado to the region.

The National Weather Service confirmed an EF-1 tornado touched down near Hicksville, Ohio, between approximately 7:09 and 7:11 p.m. The tornado produced peak winds of 95 miles per hour and traveled a path of 2.71 miles with a width of 25 yards. Damage in the area was consistent with low-end EF-1 strength, with reports of minor structural damage and debris scattered across rural properties.

In addition to the tornado, much of the region experienced straight-line winds estimated between 60 and 80 miles per hour. These damaging gusts downed power lines at both the northern and southern ends of Paulding County, contributing to scattered power outages and hazardous travel conditions.

Heavy rainfall compounded the impact of the storms. Official measurements recorded more than three inches of rain within a 24-hour period, while some localized reports approached four inches. The rapid accumulation of water led to widespread flooding concerns, particularly in low-lying and poorly drained areas.

Residents across the area reported flooded roadways, water in basements, and damage to outbuildings and homes. Emergency crews responded to numerous calls throughout the night as storms continued to redevelop and move through the region.

Storm activity persisted into the early hours of Thursday morning before conditions gradually improved. Cleanup efforts began shortly after daybreak, with local officials urging residents to remain cautious around downed power lines and flooded areas.