The sun rising over Dayton, Ohio, and surrounding communities Tuesday morning revealed the devastating path of significant damage and debris left behind by a deadly overnight tornado that struck Dayton and nearby areas including Vandalia, damaging dozens of structures.
These areas were under a tornado emergency as the dangerous tornado was reported late Monday night. At least one fatality was reported in Celina, which is about 75 miles northwest of Dayton, as of Tuesday morning. The National Weather Service called it a life-threatening situation as the tornado swept through the heavily populated area.
"A large, dangerous tornado touched down last night in northwest Montgomery County. We are focused on supporting life-saving measures, such as shutting down gas lines or locating people who are trapped by debris," a post on the county's Twitter page said. "Call 911 or contact your local fire station for emergency assistance."
Later Tuesday, the NWS confirmed EF3 tornado damage, in Beavercreek, Ohio, about 10 miles east of Dayton. The twister packed winds up to 140 mph.
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Overnight and early morning pictures on social media showed strewn trees and severely damaged homes in the area. Law enforcement reported that the New Life Worship Center just north of Dayton was destroyed.
The City of Dayton asked residents to conserve water, as power has been lost at both water plants and pump stations. The City of Dayton also issued a boil water advisory for water customers in all of Dayton and Montgomery Counties, officials tweeted. The city set up water distribution centers at some Red Cross shelters and other locations.
Residents living in a mobile home park Northridge, a town just north of Dayton, told media they've been informed that they may be living without electricity for a week.
