COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine declared a state of emergency Tuesday for 19 counties impacted by recent severe weather and flooding, including several counties across southern Ohio.
The declaration includes Ross, Pickaway, Pike, Highland and Vinton counties, along with Athens, Clermont, Gallia, Greene, Jackson, Logan, Meigs, Mercer, Montgomery, Morgan, Muskingum, Perry, Preble and Van Wert counties.
DeWine signed the proclamation Tuesday afternoon after visiting Vinton County and meeting with local officials, first responders and residents affected by significant flooding. In Vinton County alone, officials reported that approximately 60 people had to be evacuated as floodwaters submerged roads and damaged bridges, driveways and other property.
“We’ve seen significant flooding and damage across several Ohio counties,” DeWine said. “The state is working closely with local officials to provide the resources needed to help communities respond and recover.”
The emergency declaration directs relevant state departments and agencies to provide personnel, equipment, supplies and other resources needed to assist local governments with cleanup and recovery efforts.
The Ohio Department of Transportation and Ohio State Highway Patrol are continuing to assist local authorities, while the Ohio Emergency Management Agency is coordinating with county and state partners during recovery efforts.
Flooding has been particularly severe across portions of southern and southeastern Ohio. Flood warnings remained in effect Tuesday for areas including Athens, Gallia, Meigs, Morgan and Vinton counties, while minor flooding was also occurring along the Scioto River near Piketon.
The state declaration allows Ohio agencies to more readily direct resources into affected communities as local officials continue assessing damage and beginning cleanup efforts.
