(INDIANAPOLIS) - Indiana's emergency response operations have returned to normal following last weekend's winter storm, Gov. Mike Braun announced Wednesday, while praising first responders and state agencies for their efforts.
The Indiana Department of Homeland Security's State Emergency Operations Center was activated to Level III emergency status on Saturday to coordinate the statewide response to heavy snowfall and hazardous conditions. The center returned to normal operations at noon Tuesday as conditions improved.
The storm delivered significant snowfall across the state, including a record 8.7 inches in Fort Wayne on Sunday. Gov. Braun issued a statewide disaster declaration during the storm, which was later followed by a federal emergency declaration.
During the activation, the emergency operations center coordinated resources and support for local communities across Indiana. The Indiana Department of Transportation deployed more than 800 plow trucks statewide to clear state highways, U.S. routes and interstates.
Indiana State Police reported nearly 4,000 calls for service during the storm, responding to 828 crashes, more than 500 slide-offs and assisting over 1,000 motorists.
Nearly 300 Indiana National Guard members were activated, forming 24 Highway Assistance Teams that aided stranded drivers, assisted vehicles and transported motorists to safety.
Gov. Braun thanked first responders, emergency personnel, snowplow operators, National Guard members and volunteers for their work in keeping Hoosiers safe during the storm.