Gov. Braun activates Indiana National Guard after Wednesday’s severe weather in Indiana

INDIANAPOLIS — The office of Indiana Gov. Mike Braun announced on Thursday that the Indiana National Guard has been activated after severe storms hit the state of Indiana on Wednesday.

According to a news release on Thursday, the Indiana National Guard was activated to aid with storm recovery. Damage assessments and recovery operations continue after the severe weather hit more than 40 counties on Wednesday.

In central Indiana, the National Weather Service confirmed tornados in Brownsburg and in Lawrence County. Extensive storm damage was also confirmed in Carmel, Lapel, Danville and Eaton.

The release said that around 50 Hoosier Guardsmen from units based in Jasper, Vincennes and Seymour will first assist with “Operation Sandcastle.” Other units, including those in Bedford, Terre Haute, Indianapolis and Chandler, will activate if needed.

“Hoosier Guardsmen always answer the call to serve our state and our nation,” Braun said in the release. “In times like these, I’m immensely grateful for the soldiers who are on the ground ensuring Hoosier safety.” 

Officials said that the governor’s office is working with the following organizations to begin sand bagging operations in support of flood prevention of critical infrastructure, as well as assist with damage to property:

• Indiana Department of Homeland Security
• Indiana Department of Transportation
• Indiana Department of Natural Resources
• Indiana Department of Correction