Thousands in east-central Indiana were advised to move to higher ground on Wednesday following a rare Flash Flood Emergency issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) for Muncie and nearby areas. This emergency came in response to severe flooding caused by heavy rain.

The NWS released the warning at 10:17 a.m. EDT, which extends until 4:15 p.m. EDT, covering Delaware County. Emergency managers reported rainfall between 3 and 6 inches in Muncie, with up to 2 more inches possible. The NWS described the situation as “particularly dangerous.”

This is a FLASH FLOOD EMERGENCY for Muncie. This is a PARTICULARLY DANGEROUS SITUATION. SEEK HIGHER GROUND NOW!

Life-threatening flooding could affect roads, underpasses, creeks, and urban areas. The warning applies to Muncie, Yorktown, Chesterfield, Albany, Eaton, Daleville, Gaston, Selma, Ball State University, and the Prairie Creek Reservoir area. Residents were urged not to travel unless evacuating. They were reminded to “turn around, don’t drown” when encountering flooded roads.

Local officials reported that the flooding has forced evacuations in parts of Muncie. Emergency crews are helping stranded motorists and responding to flooded homes. Some neighborhoods on the city’s south side were ordered to evacuate due to rising waters.

Delaware County Emergency Management advised on Facebook, “If significant flooding is approaching your home, consider evacuating now—before rising water makes it impossible to leave safely. Don’t wait until roads become impassable. Never drive through flooded roadways.”

The NWS marked the flood damage threat as “catastrophic,” expecting heavy rain throughout the afternoon.

This story is developing. Further updates will follow.