In light of the severe weather risk facing much of the state and at the direction of Governor Mike Pence, the Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS) will increase the staffing in the State of Indiana Emergency Operations Center (EOC) beginning at 7 p.m. today.
Storms may produce straight-line winds, hail, tornadoes and flash flooding, especially in the northern and central portions of the state beginning early this evening, and nearly all parts of the state will experience some type of storms, according to the Indiana Department of Homeland Security.
“We stand ready to assist local communities whenever severe weather makes its way through the state,†said Governor Pence. “The Indiana Emergency Operations Center will be monitoring conditions and is ready to coordinate emergency response efforts as needed.â€
The State EOC will be also staffed by members of the Indiana Department of Transportation, Indiana State Police, Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission, the American Red Cross and the Fire Chiefs Association.
The additional staff members will assist the Emergency Operations Center manager and IDHS watch officers with situational awareness, and coordinate with local public safety professionals, including emergency management, emergency medical services, firefighters and law enforcement. EOC personnel will also assist with coordination of assets for utilities, road safety, sheltering needs and other needs that may arise.
Hoosiers in need of non-emergency assistance are encouraged to call their local emergency management agency. Contact information for each emergency management agency can be found at http://www.in.gov/dhs/2797.htm.
Staffing needs will be continually assessed as the summer storm progresses.
