(INDIANAPOLIS) - Indiana's Emergency Operations Center has returned to normal operations following the state's response to a major winter storm, Gov. Mike Braun's office announced Wednesday.
The Indiana Department of Homeland Security activated the center to Level III emergency status beginning Saturday to coordinate statewide response efforts. Officials said the center transitioned back to normal operations Tuesday as conditions improved.
The activation followed a statewide disaster declaration issued by Gov. Braun, which was later matched by a federal emergency declaration approved by President Donald Trump.
During the emergency period, the operations center coordinated support and resources for communities across Indiana, working with the Indiana State Police, Indiana National Guard and Indiana Department of Transportation.
State Police reported nearly 4,000 calls for service during the storm, including 828 vehicle crashes, more than 500 slide-offs and assistance provided to more than 1,000 stranded motorists.
Nearly 300 Indiana National Guard members were activated, forming 24 Highway Assistance Teams. Those teams assisted dozens of vehicles and helped transport stranded motorists to safety.
INDOT deployed more than 800 plow trucks on state highways, U.S. routes and interstates during the storm. The emergency operations center also supported local requests for intersection clearance, expedited propane deliveries to maintain communications and the distribution of cots and blankets.
Gov. Braun thanked first responders, emergency personnel, snowplow operators, National Guard members and volunteers for their efforts during the storm response.