CLEVELAND — It’s been a little over a month since the devastating EF-3 tornado ripped through Logan County, specifically Indian Lake, home to the third largest lake in Ohio.

What You Need To Know

  • Indian Lake relies on tourism
  • Businesses are in the process of recovering and the community continues to step up for one another
  • There's still a lot of cleanup to do 

It displaced many from their homes and even killed three people who were stuck in a trailer park when the tornado hit.

Now, businesses are in the process of recovering and the community continues to step up for one another.

“This is my heart and soul. This is what we do,” said Brenda Moots, owner of Indian Lake Outfitters.

With 76 state parks in Ohio, Indian Lake generates the third most revenue statewide, just behind Hocking Hills and Mohican.

And the community made up of about 2,500 people, depend on tourism.

“This is what supports our family and my husband and I were both out of work for 21 days. The positive side was that made us available for our community,” Moots said.

But following the tornado damage, people sprung into action.

A large “take what you need” donation was setup at Indian Lake High School.

Shelters opened for storm victims.

Everyone stepped up to help those displaced.

“Seeing a community come together in such a chaotic situation has been amazing to watch and so that’s been a blessing,” Moots said.

Moots said it has been difficult.

Some are still without power and others are still without a home. 

As far as cleanup goes, Moots said there’s still a lot to be done. 

“It’s been smooth for us, but I know there are a lot of challenges for folks and it’s going to be an ongoing process, it’s going to be a lot of work and a long time before things look normal again,” Moots said.

About a mile down the road from Moots’ store is Froggy’s on the Lake.

Owner, Ross Jenkins, grew up at the lake so this community is near and dear to his heart.

He said they were fortunate to not get hit by the tornado.

“We did what we could. We closed for one day, and then kind of limped through a couple days just to provide some hot meals for people,” Jenkins said.

Jenkins said the community coming together after the devastation to help one another has been incredible. 

“Indian lake is strong. I am blessed to be a part of this community and blessed to even help this community regrow and see what comes about at the end of this,” Jenkins said.

And for those looking to help in any way.

“You can cleanup if you’re physically able. If that’s not something you can do due to time you can shop at the restaurants, you can show up at the stores and we all can come together and help one another,” Moots said.