Severe Flooding in Indiana Claims Multiple Lives
Days of intense storms and flooding in Indiana have resulted in the deaths of at least six people. Floodwaters peaked in Indianapolis’ White River, and the state capital is anticipating a respite from the heavy rains. The storms began on August 11, affecting several areas.
Among those who lost their lives were a 4-year-old boy, as well as two men and three women, according to Liz Woods, a spokesperson for the state Department of Homeland Security. The White River’s waters peaked early on Sunday morning, with the city Department of Public Works predicting a short period before they start to recede.
Flooding from the White River peaked early Sunday morning, with high water levels expected to hold for a few hours before beginning to recede.
City shelters have been kept open, providing refuge for hundreds of evacuees from homes along the river and its canals. Emergency responders used boats to evacuate individuals trapped by rapidly rising water levels. The National Weather Service indicated that heavy rainfall and flash flooding remain probable across central Indiana, including Indianapolis, throughout the day.
The agency advised residents to remain vigilant by checking river and weather forecasts and to avoid dangerous and fast-moving waters. Many roads and bridges across the state have suffered significant damage or have been completely washed away.
There were approximately 130,000 utility customers without power at midday Sunday, a reduction from an initial peak of about 300,000. This power outage information came from Woods and the online utility tracker, PowerOutage.us.
Over the past week, heavy rains have caused river levels to ascend, setting new records. The White River reached more than 24 feet (7.32 meters) in Anderson and Noblesville, surpassing records from 1913. Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett described the flooding as the most severe the capital has experienced in over three decades.
Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett said the flooding was the worst the capital city has seen in more than 30 years.
Gov. Mike Braun’s office reported more than 350 evacuations and numerous rescue and welfare checks, including assistance at a senior mobile home community north of Indianapolis. President Donald Trump approved federal disaster aid on Saturday to support the state’s response and recovery efforts related to the flooding.
Severe storms have caused widespread destruction across the Midwest, with tornadoes, heavy rains, and flash floods impacting communities from Illinois to western Pennsylvania.