MONROE COUNTY – The Monroe County Emergency Management Agency continues to
help residents recover from damage following a tornado that struck western Monroe County in the evening hours of February 19, 2026.
According to new information from a preliminary report from the National Weather Service, the tornado was rated EF-2 and reached maximum wind speeds of approximately 120 mph.
The tornado followed a path of approximately 3.7 miles, hitting the Monroe County Airport and Kirby Road, several neighborhoods in the Fieldstone and Highland Village areas, Liberty Drive commercial buildings, and a bank on Third Street/ Indiana State Road 48, causing localized damage. The tornado likely dissipated around Interstate 69.
Additional dumpsters are available for debris disposal
Following significant storms, Monroe County provides temporary dumpsters for residents
to dispose of debris at no cost. Dumpsters are available now at the following locations:
- Bedrock Road and Bosell Court near Tensleep Road (NEW)
- 5332 West Stonewood Drive
These dumpsters will accept materials until Friday, March 6. At each site, one dumpster will be for wood and vegetation, and the other will be for household debris. Residents are urged to adhere to signage indicating what materials are accepted in each dumpster.
Reporting damage
Indiana 211 continues accepting structural damage reports Monroe County and the Indiana Department of Homeland Security continue to accept structural damage reports to homes and businesses via Indiana 211.
To submit a report, individuals can visit in211.org and click “DAMAGE REPORTING” or visit this link directly. Those without access to the internet can dial 2-1-1 or 866-211-9966.
