Indiana has experienced severe weather, resulting in the deaths of at least five individuals due to storms and flooding. Authorities have been active in rescuing residents stranded by rising waters, especially in neighborhoods along the White River in Indianapolis.
Over the past week, heavy rains have pushed rivers to record levels, forcing residents to seek safer locations. More than twelve counties have declared local emergencies. Much of the destruction is concentrated along river corridors from Hamilton County into the northern suburbs of Indianapolis.
In Delaware County, law enforcement discovered the body of a 58-year-old woman who likely perished while trying to drive through floodwaters. Additionally, they recovered a teenager’s body, missing since Wednesday after entering a river. Earlier, a 4-year-old boy died when a tree fell on his Jennings County home.
“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 Mike Braun stated, urging residents to treat floodwaters with caution. Braun confirmed that federal resources will be made available, following President Donald Trump’s intent to provide aid in response efforts.
Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett, alongside emergency managers, urged residents near the White River to evacuate. Hogsett highlighted that the city is facing its worst flooding in over thirty years, with conditions rapidly changing. Jacob Spence of Marion County Emergency Management described the event as unprecedented.
The National Weather Service reported over 11 inches (28 cm) of rain in some areas within 48 hours. The White River peaked at over 24 feet (7.32 meters) in Anderson and Noblesville, surpassing 1913 records. Flash-flood warnings continue across central Indiana.
The White River was expected to crest Saturday evening in Indianapolis. The National Guard is among rescue teams helping citizens. Indianapolis Fire Department spokesperson Rita Reith reported 91 people and 45 pets rescued by early afternoon.
Estimates indicate around 400 residents evacuated northern Indianapolis themselves. The governor’s office reports 350 evacuations in Delaware County and a senior mobile home park evacuation in Tipton County. Similar efforts continue in Fayette County.
Residents shared videos online showing vehicles stranded, power poles toppled, and flooded roads. Earlier in the week, destructive storms also affected other Midwest areas, causing tornadoes, heavy rains, and flash flooding from Chicago to western Pennsylvania.