One of the damaged homes in Silver Lake.

SILVER LAKE —Severe thunderstorms with strong winds and heavy rain moved through Kosciusko County Friday, July 20, with the southern part of the county reported to have sustained significant damage.

Tornado and severe thunderstorm warnings were issued, with wind speeds of up to 50 mph reported. Multiple homes and vehicles were damaged in Silver Lake, and much of the area was without power. 

Silver Lake Fire Chief John Conley reported around 100 trees uprooted or severely damaged.

“I personally know of three homes destroyed,” Conley stated, adding that those homes were in the area of north Myrtle Glen Drive to the end of Edgewater Drive. 

NIPSCO was on scene immediately, checking homes for gas leaks. 

“We had an assist from Claypool Fire Department. They helped make sure everyone was okay and helped clear the streets around Myrtle Glen and Edgewater drives,” said Conley. “Sidney Fire Department came and took care of Bouse Drive.”

According to Conley, the Silver Lake and Claypool police departments handled traffic in the area. Shankster Brothers, Silver Lake, Hilltop Tree Service, Akron, and Fallen Timber Specialists, Warsaw, helped clear the streets.

“Pleasant Township covered an electrical fire for us on 14,” said Conley. “We didn’t have the manpower, as we were dealing with trees on houses and a gas leak.”

Conley said Red Cross assisted at least one family. No injuries were reported. Silver Lake residents immediately began clean up efforts, assisting neighbors whose properties had sustained damage. 

“The people of Silver Lake really helped each other out,” said Conley.

NIPSCO  and REMC crews worked through the night, with power restored to some areas early this morning.