COLUMBUS, Ohio-Ohio Governor Mike DeWine declared a state of emergency for several Northeast Ohio counties—Ashtabula, Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake, Lorain, Portage, Summit, and Trumbull—following severe storms and tornadoes that caused extensive damage. This declaration allows for expedited state assistance to affected communities. Governor DeWine also instructed Ohio Emergency Management Director Sima Merick to request a FEMA damage assessment for the region. He urged local governments and affected individuals to contact their County Emergency Management offices for damage assessment and assistance. DeWine emphasized the importance of giving power restoration crews space to work safely.
