Severe Storms Cause Damage and Power Outages in Northwest Indiana

One person has been reported dead in Portage, Indiana, as violent storms hit Northwest Indiana, leaving hundreds of thousands without power and causing significant damage. The Portage Fire Department confirmed a fatality due to a house fire, though reports of an explosion remain unverified.

Jeff Chin and Tiffany Gonzales worked together to clear trees from roads in Valparaiso after the storm passed through on August 11, 2026. NIPSCO reported around 288,000 customers without power as a result of the storm. Portage Police have scheduled a news conference to outline the damage suffered from the storm.

More than 290,000 customers of the Northern Indiana Public Service Company were affected by Tuesday’s severe weather. The company stated that efforts are underway to assess the damage, make necessary repairs, and restore power as safely and quickly as possible. As of 4 p.m. Tuesday, over 290,000 NIPSCO customers were impacted, with significant outages reported in Gary, Hammond, Crown Point, Hobart, Merrillville, Munster, and other surrounding areas.

In Merrillville, traffic signals were out throughout the town. Numerous downed trees and large branches blocked roads, prompting police efforts to clear roadways and restore traffic. The police requested residents only call 911 for emergencies and stay clear of downed power lines.

Rick Bella, Merrillville Town Council President, described the severe winds that caused extensive damage, including partial roof removal at the town hall. Due to safety concerns, the town hall closed, and Bella signed an emergency proclamation to address the situation.

In Munster, the Board of Zoning Appeals and Plan Commission meeting was canceled, with residents advised to shelter in place. Public works and police were coordinating to assess damage.

Gary also closed all city buildings and advised residents to report fallen trees and storm damage. Mayor Eddie Melton urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel to allow emergency personnel to work efficiently.

Portage experienced catastrophic damage according to a fire department statement, which confirmed the house fire fatality. Response times were extended due to debris and hazardous conditions.

Tiffany Gonzales reported encountering blocked roads while trying to return home. She worked with others to clear the way, ensuring her animals were safe despite power outages.

Portage Mayor Austin Bonta declared a state of emergency, with City Hall turning into a command center. Woodland Park was designated an emergency shelter, and residents were asked to stay home if safe.

The first day of school for Portage Township Schools was delayed due to the storm. Communications Director Melissa Deavers noted that the safety of the campuses is being assessed in coordination with local officials.

Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District suspended South Shore Line service due to storm damage, deploying buses to affected routes.