Severe weather can create immediate challenges for rural communities where homes, roads and utility infrastructure are spread across a wide area. In Harrison County, the New Athens tornado has left residents and emergency crews dealing with damaged houses, fallen trees, debris and power disruptions following Thursday’s storm.
At least two tornadoes were initially reported during the storm, with video evidence documenting at least one touchdown. The National Weather Service later identified the tornado that moved into Harrison County as an EF2, with peak winds estimated at 115 to 120 miles per hour.
The tornado developed in Carroll County before moving into Harrison County. It remained on the ground for approximately 10 minutes, from 4:50 p.m. until 5 p.m., and traveled along a path measuring about 2.7 miles. The National Weather Service described that amount of ground time as significant considering the hilly terrain of the area.
Damage and cleanup after the New Athens tornado
The damage was visible across New Athens shortly after the storm. Fallen trees, branches and other debris were scattered around the community, while the grounds surrounding the Franklin Museum also sustained damage. Several homes were affected more seriously, including properties where porches were torn away and at least one house that lost most of its roof. No injuries were reported.
Initial assessments indicate that at least 16 private residences were affected by the tornado. Emergency officials are continuing to collect information about property damage, while insurance and potential assistance issues are also being reviewed. A verified total financial estimate for the damage has not yet been established. The main figures reported following the storm:
- EF2 tornado classification.
- Peak winds of approximately 115 to 120 mph.
- 2.7 miles of documented tornado path.
- About 10 minutes on the ground.
- At least 16 private residences affected.
- No reported injuries.
Road access became an immediate priority after the tornado. The sheriff’s office reported the touchdown shortly after 5:20 p.m., and seven road crews were dispatched to remove debris and keep affected routes open. Damage assessments also continued as emergency personnel inspected the area and gathered information for state authorities. Nearly two dozen electrical service trucks were positioned along Ohio 9 and State Route 151 during the cleanup, working under contract for AEP Ohio. Despite initial concerns about the extent of the disruption, electrical service was restored by approximately 3 p.m. Friday, earlier than expected.
The storm is also notable within the recent weather history of Harrison County. The last recorded tornado to touch down in the county occurred in 2000 near Bowerston and was also rated EF2. The strongest tornado documented in the county occurred near Deersville in 1969, while weaker tornadoes were recorded north of Carrollton in 2019.
For regional Ohio news, the New Athens tornado represents a significant local weather event because of its EF2 strength, documented wind speeds, and damage to homes across the community. The absence of reported injuries is particularly important given the structural damage recorded along the tornado’s path.
Cleanup and damage assessment are continuing, with residents who experienced storm damage able to contact the Harrison County Emergency Management Agency at 740 942 3900.