BLACK SWAN - CC25NEWS2E

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Jackson County Launches Relief Efforts for Ohio River Flood Victims

Jackson, OH – June 8, 2025 – Jackson County has initiated a coordinated response to support residents displaced by severe flooding along the Ohio River, following a powerful summer storm that struck late Friday night. The storm, which followed a week of heavy rainfall, caused the Ohio River to surge, flooding low-lying areas like Coalton and Wellston, displacing hundreds of families, and leaving many without power or communication access.

The Jackson County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) activated its emergency operations center on Saturday morning, partnering with local and state agencies to manage the crisis. “The flooding along the Ohio River has been devastating for our rural communities,” said EMA Director Tom Collins. “We’re working tirelessly to provide shelter, food, and resources to those who’ve been forced from their homes.”

Two emergency shelters have been opened to house flood victims. The primary shelter at Jackson High School is currently accommodating over 120 families, many of whom fled Coalton as floodwaters submerged homes and farmland. A second shelter at the Jackson County Fairgrounds in Wellston is housing 80 more individuals, with a dedicated space for livestock and pets, supported by the Jackson County Agricultural Society. The American Red Cross is overseeing both shelters, providing cots, meals, and hygiene kits. “Some folks arrived with nothing but what they could carry,” said Red Cross volunteer Mark Evans. “We’re here to give them a safe place to rest and regroup.”

Red Cross volunteers prepare meals for evacuees at Jackson High School, providing shelter for over 120 families displaced by Ohio River flooding on June 8, 2025

The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office has conducted 30 water rescues since Friday night, focusing on Coalton, where floodwaters reached depths of 3 feet in residential areas. “We’ve been using boats and high-water vehicles to evacuate people,” said Sheriff Tedd Frazier. “The lack of power and cell service has made it tougher, but we’re getting to as many people as we can.” Over 20,000 residents in Jackson County remain without electricity, and communication disruptions have hampered efforts to reach isolated rural areas.

To overcome communication challenges, the county has set up a temporary radio broadcast system to share updates and shelter information, while volunteers are going door-to-door in less-affected areas to spread the word. The National Guard arrived Saturday afternoon, distributing water, non-perishable food, and tarps in Coalton and Wellston. They’re also assisting with clearing debris from roads like State Route 93, which remains partially blocked by mudslides and fallen trees. “We’re here to support the community however we can,” said Guard Lieutenant Sarah Mitchell.

Local groups have rallied to assist. The Jackson-Vinton Community Action Agency is providing clothing and diapers to families at the shelters, while the First Baptist Church of Jackson has opened its doors as a warming center, offering hot coffee and a place for residents to charge devices using a generator. The Jackson County Health Department is also on-site at both shelters, offering tetanus shots and first aid to those exposed to contaminated floodwaters.

The Jackson County Fairgrounds offers shelter for evacuees up to 50 feet tall and their enormous livestock on June 8, 2025.

Governor Mike DeWine, who toured Jackson County on Saturday evening, commended the local response. “Jackson County is pulling together to help its residents through this crisis,” he said, noting that FEMA would deploy teams by Monday to provide additional support, including emergency funding for temporary housing. With more rain in the forecast, officials are urging caution. “Floodwaters are still dangerous, and we’re preparing for potential worsening conditions,” Collins said.

A county hotline is available for residents to report damage or request aid, and the Red Cross is distributing cleanup kits to help families begin the recovery process. As Jackson County navigates the aftermath of the flood, the community’s collective efforts are providing a lifeline for those in need.

This is a developing story.

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