City officials have declared a local disaster emergency following an EF-1 tornado that struck Linton on the evening of Dec. 28, causing significant damage to downtown buildings, homes, and utilities and displacing multiple families.

According to a declaration issued by Mayor John Preble, the storm brought a tornado along with excessive rain and strong winds, resulting in extensive damage to public and private property and creating hazardous conditions throughout the community. The local disaster emergency took effect Dec. 29.

The Dec. 28 storm marked the second tornado to impact the Linton community in 2025, following a previous EF-2 tornado that caused damage in May.

Under the declaration, the mayor is authorized to utilize all available city resources and personnel, implement emergency measures to protect public health and safety, and enter into mutual aid agreements with Greene County, the Indiana Department of Homeland Security, state and federal agencies, and nonprofit relief organizations, including the American Red Cross. The declaration will remain in effect until terminated by the mayor or the City Council in accordance with Indiana law.

The National Weather Service confirmed that the tornado that struck Linton was Indiana’s 61st tornado of 2025. The EF-1 tornado had estimated peak winds of 100 mph, a path length of approximately 1.12 miles and a maximum width of 75 yards. No fatalities were reported; however, one injury was confirmed.

The tornado touched down at approximately 7:18 p.m. EST near A Street SW and Sixth Street SW, then moved northeast through downtown Linton. The most significant damage occurred along Main Street between West Vincennes Street and A Street SW, where roofs of masonry buildings sustained damage consistent with an EF-1 tornado. National Weather Service officials also reported splatter of dirt and mud consistent with tornadic activity.

Additional roof and tree damage was observed as the tornado continued east-northeast between A Street NE and East Vincennes Street before weakening and lifting shortly after passing 12th Street NE at approximately 7:20 p.m.

City officials continue to assess damage and coordinate recovery efforts as cleanup progresses.