LAKEVIEW, Ohio — It’s the one-year anniversary of the devastating tornado that ripped through Logan County about 60 miles northwest of Columbus.
The storm killed three people and injured at least 20 others, while also tearing up a community that’s a popular summer spot.
“It’s a slow process,” said Brenda Moots, owner of The Depot and Indian Lake Outfitters, referring to the recovery efforts.
An EF3 tornado struck the region last March damaging homes and businesses in Lakeview.
Moots business was one of many that was badly damaged.
“It’s really tough. Everyone has a lot of different emotions, so I can’t speak for the town as a whole. My personal opinion and feeling is that we don’t give ourself enough grace for how far we’ve really come,” Moots said.
One year later, debris from the tornado and homes under construction can still be seen.
“We certainly don’t want to forget or ignore all the things that haven’t been done yet and the folks that still need help,” Moots said.
Moots business has made a full recovery over the past 365 days.
“I’m grateful that we’re back open and we can give back to the community the way we used to,” Moots said.
Meanwhile, some businesses are just now rebuilding after facing insurance and zoning hurdles.
“Everybody is in a different situation and we don’t want to judge where people are at in the transition and the rebuild,” Moots said.
But there’s one thing Moots said is important to remember.
“None of us can do this by ourselves. It takes all of us working together and communicating and being strong and have faith that we’re all gonna get through it,” Moots said.
