KENTON, OH (WOWO) The Hardin County Fairgrounds in Kenton, Ohio, remain closed indefinitely following a tornado that struck the area last week.

The EF1 tornado, with estimated peak winds of 90 miles per hour, touched down south of Kenton on March 26, carving a path about 0.13 miles long and up to 75 yards wide, according to the National Weather Service. No injuries or fatalities were reported.

Fair officials report extensive damage across the site, including the machinery building, poultry and rabbit building, Hardin County Cattle Producers Steak Barn, Arts and Crafts Building, Hardin County Pork Producers Building, maintenance shop, roundhouse, grandstand, Goshen barn, and Youth and Ag Center, according to Hardin County Fair. Several power lines and poles were also knocked down, prompting the indefinite closure.

Officials emphasized relief that no one was hurt, including the on-site caretaker. Jake McFadden, a fairboard director, said, “First and foremost, we’re so glad that Randy, our dedicated caretaker that lives on the fairgrounds, is not injured.”

While immediate efforts focus on safety inspections and insurance assessments, community members, 4-H clubs, and FFA chapters have offered support for cleanup and rebuilding. Fair board leaders stressed that the annual Hardin County Fair will go on as planned. “Make no mistake, we will have a Hardin County Fair this year,” McFadden said.

Updates on reopening and volunteer opportunities will be provided as rebuilding progresses.