MONROE CO. – Monroe County is actively engaged in recovery efforts after an EF-2 tornado and high winds struck the western and south-central parts of the county on May 16th, at approximately 7:30 p.m. The severe weather caused significant damage, resulting in the loss of homes, buildings, and property for many residents. In response, the Board of Commissioners has signed and activated a local disaster declaration.
Debris Cleanup and Disposal Guidelines
Affected residents are responsible for cleaning up the debris. To assist with disposal, three temporary dumpster locations have been established within the tornado’s path, each equipped with two dumpsters: one for yard and tree waste, and one for home debris. These sites will be available for a limited period of two weeks, ending on Friday, June 6th.
The temporary dumpster locations are:
- Between Elwren and Harmony Road.
- Near the area of E. Jackson Creek Drive and S. Sandpiper Drive.
- At the Lighthouse Christian Academy.
Additionally, a fourth site is available at the Monroe County Debris Management Site, located at 7740 North Fish Road, Bloomington, IN 47408. This location explicitly accepts trees and vegetation debris and is open Monday through Friday from noon to 4:00 p.m.
Residents are reminded not to drag debris to the road’s edge, as Monroe County is not responsible for removing debris from private property.
Red Cross Assistance and Case Management
The American Red Cross is now accepting applications for case management to assist Monroe County residents impacted by the tornado. Residents can apply at the American Red Cross Office, located at 441 S College Ave, Bloomington, IN 47403.
The office hours are:
- Weekends: 11 AM – 6 PM
- Weekdays: 12 PM – 7 PM
Applicants are asked to bring an ID and proof of address (such as an electric bill, lease, or car registration) if the address on their ID differs from their current residence.
Volunteering Information
Due to the hazardous conditions following the storm, spontaneous volunteering is discouraged. Those interested in supporting the community’s recovery efforts are encouraged to sign up through the Bloomington Volunteer Network (BVN) at https://www.bloomingtonvolunteernetwork.org/. Volunteers should sign up with “MoCOAD Members and On-Call Volunteers” and will be contacted when volunteer operations are ready to commence.
Storm Relief Supplies Available
A limited supply of tarps and totes is still available for pickup. If you need these supplies, please call the Emergency Management Office at 812-349-2533. If there is no answer, please leave a voicemail.
