(ANGOLA) – The State of Indiana has rejected Steuben County’s request for a State Disaster Declaration.

Steuben County Emergency Management Agency Director Lee Greenamyer says he made the request following tornadoes that moved through the County. On March 30, an EF-1 tornado originated in a field just north of Little Turkey Lake at 5:28 PM, moving to the Northeast with winds at 90 MPH. It collapsed a metal barn and damaged several trees.

On April 2 at 8:46 PM an EF-1 tornado touched down on the south side of Orland. It destroyed an old barn, uprooted and snapped several trees before eventually moving into Bethel Township in Branch County. Winds from the twister were reported at 105 MPH.

Greenamyer says they gathered damage estimates and also sought assistance from the Indiana Department of Homeland Security. However he says they did not meet the criteria to receive public assistance under the Indiana Disaster Relief Fund.

Greenamyer says they will now explore other options, which includes getting more information and data and asking for an appeal.

Greenamyer says residents who were affected by these storms are able to apply for limited assistance through the State Disaster Relief Fund. The initial aid is capped at $2,000 for immediate needs, however future support is possible, pending damage assessments.