New Albany and Gahanna homeowners whose properties were damaged by the Aug. 10-11 storms can apply for a temporary reduction in their assessed property value, Franklin County Auditor Michael Stinziano announced Aug. 11.

The reduction could lower real estate taxes until repairs are completed.

The two-day storm system hammered Franklin County with wind gusts around 80 mph and several inches of rain, triggering multiple National Weather Service severe thunderstorm and flood warnings. A gust of 82 mph was recorded at John Glenn Columbus International Airport, according to Spectrum News 1. By 11:30 a.m. Aug. 11, 95,000 Franklin County customers had lost power.

Both New Albany and Gahanna were in the direct path of the storm system, according to National Weather Service radar tracking.

"Monday and Tuesday's flooding and severe winds might have caused significant damage for some Franklin County homeowners," Stinziano said in the announcement. "If your property was damaged, our office wants you to know there may be relief available."

Ohio law gives county auditors authority to reduce assessed values on properties that have been damaged or destroyed. The Auditor's office can also proactively identify damaged properties without a homeowner filing. In those cases, the homeowner will receive a letter notifying them of a proposed adjustment.

How to apply

Property owners can file online or submit a printed form through the Auditor's office. Photos, repair estimates or insurance claim information can strengthen an application but are not required to file.

No deadline has been set.

The program is separate from the regular property value review process, which has a Sept. 5 deadline. Applications and program details are available on the Franklin County Auditor's website.