06/18/2026
June 18th 2026 - Last night, firefighters and emergency responders were kept busy as a tornado moved through the northern portion of Monroe County, causing widespread damage throughout the area.
Emergency crews responded to numerous incidents including homes that sustained heavy damage or were completely destroyed, downed power lines and trees blocking roadways, a damaged propane tank that caught fire, and motor vehicle accidents.
Firefighters spent several hours driving and walking roads conducting welfare checks on residents in northern Washington Township, Bean Blossom Township, and Benton Township to ensure everyone was safe and accounted for.
In addition to emergency response operations, firefighters began collecting preliminary damage assessment information overnight on behalf of the Emergency Management Office. Crews will return to the affected areas again this morning to continue damage assessments during daylight hours and assist with ongoing recovery efforts.
While last night's storm caused extensive property damage thankfully only minor injuries were reported and no reports of life-threatening injuries.
Non-residents of the area are asked to continue avoiding the affected areas whenever possible. Road crews and utility companies remain hard at work clearing debris, reopening roadways, and restoring electrical service to impacted homes and businesses. Limiting unnecessary travel in these areas will allow emergency personnel and utility workers to operate safely and efficiently.
The Monroe Fire Protection District would like to extend its sincere appreciation to all of the agencies that worked together throughout the night to check on residents and keep the community safe. Their teamwork and dedication were instrumental in the response and recovery efforts.
Agencies assisting included:
• Monroe Fire Protection District
• Ellettsville Fire Department
• Bean Blossom/Stinesville Fire Department
• Monroe County Sheriff's Office
• Indiana State Police - Bloomington District
• Monroe County Highway Department
Our thoughts are with all of those affected by this storm as they work on clean up and recovery.
Monroe County Emergency Management has worked with the American Red Cross to set up an emergency shelter for those affected by the June 17th storms. The shelter is located at the Stinesville Community Center (Old Stinesville Elementary School) located at 7951 Main St., Stinesville, IN.