'You can't believe it': Vanderburgh Co. neighborhood riddled with storm damage
EVANSVILLE, Ind. (WFIE) - As they sun came up Thursday morning, we’re getting a better picture of the damage left behind by severe weather. Those who live off Big Cynthiana Road in Vanderburgh County are, too.
“You come down the road, and you can’t believe it,” said Phillip Schneider, whose roof was ripped off my storms Wednesday night.
At least half a dozen homes were damaged by high winds. Those in the area tell 14 News they believe it came through around 8:30 p.m.
The area is now left without power, as several powerlines were pulled down, along with trees, barns and more roofs.
“I could hear the garage roof coming off,” Schneider said. “I looked out the front door and I said there’s our roof, out there in the front yard. I’ve been in some wind storms and stuff, but nothing like this.”
Across the street, Gene Goebel and his family took shelter in the basement, as the storms plowed through his family home for generations.
“My dad and I were both were born in the old farmhouse that used to be here,” Goebel said. “My family has owned this farm since 1844. I’m the fifth generation.”
His big red barn has served as a landmark in the area for decades. Now, the only part left standing is the tractor he parked inside.
“One of my granddaughters had her wedding reception here in the barn,” Goebel said, “so it’s very personal.”
His house wasn’t spared either. Large holes now fill the roof where it looks like debris flew through the air.
“I couldn’t believe the amount of damage we saw when we looked outside,” said Goebel.
And while everyone in the area escaped the storm unharmed, the emotional toll will take some time to get through.
“I hate to look at it,” Goebel said. “It hurts.”
Now, those in the area are racing to cover their damaged roofs, before more storms move through.
They tell us they’re convinced it was a tornado that rolled through and caused all the damage. That official determination will be made by the National Weather Service, who will continue to survey the region in the coming days.
Copyright 2025 WFIE. All rights reserved.
