Recent storms in Indiana have resulted in at least five deaths, as reported by Governor Mike Braun. Historic flooding along the White River in Indianapolis has prompted emergency rescues for several dozen people and their pets. Authorities expect the number of those affected to rise as responses continue.

Unprecedented Flooding

Jacob Spence, Director of Marion County Emergency Management, highlighted the severity of the flooding, describing it as a ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ event. New records are being set as the situation unfolds. Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett has urged residents along the river to evacuate. Earlier, a local emergency was declared due to heavy rains causing creeks and streams to overflow across central Indiana.

Record-Breaking Water Levels

Some rivers have reached levels unseen in over a century. Aerial footage captured extensive flooding in areas such as Noblesville, Indiana. The damage is particularly significant along the river corridor from Hamilton County into northern Indianapolis suburbs. In Delaware County, the body of a 58-year-old woman was found, a victim of attempted driving through floodwaters.

“My heart is with the families and loved ones of the five Hoosiers we have lost and every family whose life has been changed by these storms,” Governor Braun stated.

Loss and Recovery Efforts

The Delaware County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the discovery of 18-year-old Matthew Morey’s body. Morey was an incoming Purdue University freshman who, along with friends, entered the Mississinewa River. The loss has deeply affected the community.

Yorktown Public Library suffered severe flooding, with approximately 1-foot-high water damaging the building. The library reported that the water levels have decreased and plans for recovery are underway with professional assistance.

Federal Support and Continued Threats

Governor Braun discussed the situation with President Trump, who authorized a presidential emergency declaration. This decision releases up to $5 million in federal aid to support response and recovery efforts following significant rainfall.

Flash flood warnings remain in effect across central Indiana, with additional rain expected. In Warren County, a reported 2 inches of rain fell within six hours. The White River surpassed its previous record levels in Anderson and continued to rise in the Indianapolis area. The National Guard is actively involved in rescue efforts.

Officials, including Todd Wilson from the public works department, continue to urge residents to heed warnings as the situation remains serious. Social media posts depict stranded vehicles, collapsing power poles, and widespread flooding.

This week’s severe weather has impacted the broader Midwest region, with damage extending from Chicago to western Pennsylvania.