Severe storms and flooding in Indiana have led to the deaths of at least six people. Floodwaters in Indianapolis’ White River have peaked, with rain expected to lessen in the region. The storms began on August 11, according to Liz Woods, a spokesperson for the state Department of Homeland Security. Among the deceased are a 4-year-old boy, two men, and three women.
In Jennings County, a tree fell during strong winds, killing the young boy in his bedroom. Deputy Chief Cody Low expressed the community’s grief and resilience. ‘There’s nothing we can say that is going to make it any better. We’re going to push through this as a community,’ he stated to a local news outlet.
Another victim, a 19-year-old man named Matthew Morey, was discovered after jumping into the swollen Mississinewa River alongside friends. His loved ones gathered at the scene to remember him and caution others about the dangers of such conditions. Morey was a recent high school graduate set to attend Purdue University.
Delaware County officials reported recovering the body of 58-year-old Stephanie Sallee and her dog in a cornfield near her car. They believe the vehicle was swept away by floodwaters. Her family remembers her for her compassion and love for her grandchildren and other young relatives.
Floodwaters in Indianapolis reached their peak early Sunday. The city Department of Public Works announced that levels would stay high for several hours before receding. Emergency shelters remain open after evacuations along rivers and canals. Rescue missions have been conducted using boats for those trapped by sudden floodwaters.
Recovery work has begun as areas north of Indianapolis start to dry out. Hamilton County Board of Commissioners President Christine Altman stated, ‘It’s not raining, and the water is receding.’ No lives were lost in Hamilton County, but officials are deciding if a damaged significant bridge requires a complete replacement.
The National Weather Service warned of potential heavy rain and flash flooding in central Indiana. They advised residents to monitor forecasts and avoid dangerous waters. Roads and bridges in the state have suffered extensive damage or have been washed away by floods.
By midday Sunday, nearly 130,000 utility customers were still without power, decreasing from a peak of 300,000, according to Woods and PowerOutage.us. Heavy rains have prevailed over Indiana, causing cresting rivers and setting new records. The White River topped records in Anderson and Noblesville, surpassing those set in 1913. Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett remarked on the flooding being the worst in over 30 years.
Governor Mike Braun relayed that more than 350 evacuations and numerous rescue operations have occurred, including at a senior mobile home community. President Donald Trump approved federal disaster assistance in response to the flooding.
Tornadoes and severe storms have also impacted the Midwest, from Illinois to western Pennsylvania, causing similar havoc and destruction.
Marcelo reported from New York.