Strong Storms Roll through Ohio

Strong storms rolled through Seneca, Putnam and Hancock counties, damaging or destroying several homes.

Firefighters in Hancock County, and a resident in Fostoria, reported seeing a tornado. But the National Weather Service has not yet been able to confirm any tornado activity.

Washington Township Fire Chief Bob Hill said a dozen homes were destroyed in the central eastern part of the township, in Hancock County. Winds blew the roofs off several homes, including one in the town of Janera.

A news release from Putnam County said eight homes and one business were damaged or destroyed, but there have been no reports of injuries or deaths. Several roads have been closed due to debris.

Putnam County Emergency Management Agency Assistant Coordinator Josh Walters said a tornado ripped through rural areas in Greensburg Township, which suffered the worst damage. Many areas are covered in wooden debris, he said.

About 20 people in the county took shelter with friends and family. Some houses lost power when an electrical utility was destroyed in the storm. The American Red Cross set up a shelter last night but no one showed up, Walters said.

The storm moved through northwest Ohio just after midnight, bringing high winds and rains. In some counties, tornado warnings were in effect until after 2 a.m. Saturday.