MADISON TOWNSHIP — The Microburst storm earlier this month, which primarily affected Madison Township in Richland County, did not have a formal disaster declaration.
Because no declaration was issued funding is not available for damages related to this storm, according to Rebecca Owens, director of the Richland County Emergency Management Agency. Individuals should reach out to their insurance provider.
A disaster declaration is issued when a disaster or emergency exceeds the local response and/or recovery capabilities. Thresholds on such things as the type and amount of damages to property must be met in order to meet criteria for a declaration. Damages to the area did not meet the thresholds.
At approximately 2:30 a.m. Saturday, April 1, severe winds traveled through Richland County causing significant damage to various structures in Madison Township including the Madison Township Fire Department and Madison Township Building.
Loss of power was reported throughout the area due to downed power lines. Power was restored by Sunday evening, April 2.
The National Weather Service in Cleveland has classified the incident as Straight Line Winds caused by a Microburst with an abrupt outflow of winds from the storms with 80-85 mph gusts.
