SOUTHEAST OHIO (WSAZ) – Ohio Governor Mike DeWine declared a state of emergency Wednesday for four southeast Ohio counties, including Lawrence, Jackson and Scioto, in connection with last Friday’s severe weather in Tropical System Helene.

Pike County is also listed in the declaration, according to a news release from the governor’s office.

High winds, flooding, power outages and downed trees affected homes, other personal property and roads during the September 27 event.

“This declaration of a state of emergency gives the state the opportunity to provide assistance to these communities more quickly,” DeWine said in the news release. “We will continue to monitor needs and help southern Ohio communities recover from the damage and clear large amounts of debris from the recent storm event.”

The press release continued:

“The Ohio Emergency Management Agency (Ohio EMA) has been working with affected counties to assess needs and provide assistance. The Ohio EMA remains in contact with County Emergency Management Agencies (County EMAs) and will monitor developments and offer assistance.

“Local governments needing assistance should contact their county emergency management agency offices.”

Larry Mullins, Scioto County emergency management director, said they are looking for 25 homes that meet the Ohio Emergency Management Agency’s criteria for “major damage” or “destroyed” to receive state money.

According to Emergency Management, “major damage” means significant, repairable structural damage. Destroyed means that a house becomes uninhabitable due to irreparable structural damage.

“Even if we … sustain 25 damaged homes, you know, there’s still no guarantee that we’re going to be able to claim state resources or funds. However, it’s a good sign when the governor says you know this: “I’ve been there and I’m declaring this a disaster area,” Mullins said.

To contact Scioto County Emergency Management about the status of your home, visit the Scioto County Emergency Management Facebook page.

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