Severe Storms and Flooding in Indiana Lead to Fatalities and Extensive Damage

Indiana has experienced devastating storms and flooding, resulting in the deaths of at least five individuals. First responders, using boats, conducted rescues in neighborhoods along the White River in Indianapolis. Heavy rains over the past week caused rivers to reach unprecedented levels, prompting residents to seek safe ground.

Authorities declared local disasters in more than a dozen counties, with significant damage along river corridors from Hamilton County to the northern Indianapolis suburbs. In Delaware County, officials discovered the body of a 58-year-old woman who appears to have driven into floodwaters, and a teen found dead after going missing when he jumped into a river. Additionally, a four-year-old boy died after a tree fell on his home in Jennings County.

Governor Mike Braun expressed his condolences to the families affected, emphasizing the importance of avoiding floodwaters. He announced President Donald Trump’s intention to approve federal aid for flood response and recovery efforts.

Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett, alongside emergency managers, urged residents near the White River to evacuate. The city faced its worst flooding in over three decades, with rapidly changing conditions. Jacob Spence, director of Marion County Emergency Management, described it as a ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ flood. The National Weather Service reported that over 11 inches of rain fell in two days in some regions. The White River crested at over 24 feet in Anderson and Noblesville, surpassing records from 1913.

Flash-flood warnings persisted in central Indiana, with forecasters anticipating the White River to peak in Indianapolis. Rescue operations included National Guard assistance. The Indianapolis Fire Department reported rescuing 91 people and 45 pets. Todd Wilson, director of public works, advised residents to heed warnings as waters continued to rise.

Approximately 400 individuals evacuated northern Indianapolis independently, while more than 350 evacuations occurred in Delaware County. A senior mobile home community in Tipton County was also evacuated. Rescues and welfare checks took place in Fayette County. Residents shared videos online showing vehicles stranded in water, a power pole falling, and flooded streets.

This week’s storms impacted much of the Midwest, causing tornadoes, heavy rains, and flash floods from Chicago to western Pennsylvania.

Montoya Bryan contributed reporting from Albuquerque, New Mexico.