March 27, 2024

Drainage ditches could not hold the amount of rain that fell August 16, 2022 on Vine Street in Racine, Ohio. Photo by Brent Rose.

Saturday Storm Knocks Out Power, Takes Down Trees in Meigs County

MEIGS COUNTY, Ohio – Saturday afternoon on July 23, strong storms moved across Meigs County, causing damage and power outages.

The storm took down trees, limbs and power lines causing blocked roadways. According to AEP, more than 1,300 customers were without power. There was also some flash flooding in areas. The rains created flooding in yards and other areas as drainage ditches quickly became streams. The Village of Racine area had approximately 1.6 tenths inch of rain. Debris was blown across roadways, causing some to be blocked. Numerous fire departments were out assisting the county highway department removing limbs and trees from the highway. 

The heavy rain was accompanied by wind gusts up to 70 mph. Across the state, almost 47,000 AEP customers were without power.

According to AEP, hundreds their employees, line and tree contractors have begun to remove downed trees and limbs, assess damage and restore power as they are able. Additional crews and equipment are being brought in to assist with storm damage.

As of publication, there are more than 800 AEP customers in Meigs County without power. Restoration is still being accessed.