Mayor Melton Provides Storm Recovery Updates with Congressman Mrvan and Announces Partnership with AT&T

Gary, IND. Mayor Eddie Melton released a video briefing outlining the City of Gary’s coordinated response and ongoing recovery efforts following the severe storm that struck the city on August 11, 2026. Mayor Melton was joined in the briefing by Congressman Frank Mrvan, Gary Common Council President and 5th District Councilwoman Linda Barnes-Caldwell, and Fire Chief Larry Tillman.

Congressman Frank Mrvan provided an update on federal assistance and the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s response to the storm.

“At this point, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has approved an emergency declaration for Indiana, making certain federal disaster assistance resources available to the State of Indiana to supplement state and local response efforts,” stated Congressman Mrvan. “As Northwest Indiana navigates the disaster response and recovery process following the severe storms beginning on August 11, I am committed to being a resource and trusted source of information for local governments, elected officials, and residents in our region.”

FEMA is authorized to identify, mobilize, and provide equipment and resources necessary to alleviate the impacts of the emergency. Specifically, $5 million in funds have been made available statewide, with Category B (emergency protective measures) and direct federal assistance approved, allowing federal resources to be deployed to support immediate response efforts. Additional information regarding local resources and funding obligations will be updated at www.fema.gov/disaster/3651. Residents can also call 1-800-621-FEMA.

As recovery efforts continue, keeping residents connected remains an important part of the City’s response. AT&T is waiving overage charges and providing unlimited talk, text, and data for eligible customers in storm-impacted areas through September 11.  

AT&T has also provided device charging lockers at Red Cross-supported shelters, including the YWCA in Gary, while FirstNet has deployed a satellite truck to the NIPSCO facility in Gary to support utility recovery efforts.  

Version Wireless has also provided Wi-Fi and charging stations to the YWCA.  

“Keeping our residents connected is an important part of our recovery,” stated Mayor Melton. “We are grateful to our partners at AT&T and Verizon Wireless for stepping up to support our residents and the agencies working around the clock to help Gary recover.”

Following the storm, the City has assessed 2,097 damage sites and requests for assistance across Gary. More than 80 percent of reported impacts involve fallen trees and blocked roads, with the heaviest concentration of damage in Glen Park, Miller/Aetna, Midtown, and Tolleston.

“We have made progress, with 75 percent of reported blocked roads now reopened to traffic,” stated Mayor Melton during the video message. “At the same time, we know there is still significant work ahead of us. We continue to assess conditions throughout our neighborhoods and are developing a strategic plan to address debris removal and determine repair costs for long-term restoration”

Gary Common Council President Linda Barnes-Caldwell encouraged residents to document any storm-related damage to their property. Residents should take photographs and videos, keep receipts and records, and save any other documentation that can verify losses.

“Residents should report storm damage by calling 211 or visiting IN211.org,” stated Council President Linda-Barnes Caldwell. “The Indiana Department of Homeland Security is using 211 to collect damage information, which will help officials document the full extent of the storm’s impact and support any future request for a major disaster declaration.

As recovery efforts continue, residents are also encouraged to utilize resources available through state and federal agencies. Assistance is available beyond the City of Gary, and residents impacted by the storm are encouraged to explore all available resources.

“The Indiana Department of Homeland Security’s August Disaster Resource Hub is now available and includes information about and an application for the State Disaster Relief Fund, specifically for the August 11 storm,” stated Gary Fire Chief Larry Tillman. “Impacted Hoosiers may qualify for emergency aid grants of up to $5,000. These funds are intended to assist families with essential needs, including clothing and uninsured medical devices, particularly for individuals who have been displaced from their homes.”

Residents impacted by the storm are encouraged to visit the August Disaster Resource Hub to learn more about available assistance and recovery resources.

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