INDIANAPOLIS — At least six people have died in Indiana after a powerful storm system dumped more than 11 inches of rain on parts of the state, triggering historic flooding, evacuations and widespread rescue operations.
Flooding was particularly severe along the White River from Hamilton County into the northern suburbs of Indianapolis, where emergency crews rescued more than 90 people and 45 pets, according to NBC News.
In Indianapolis’ Ravenwood neighborhood, floodwaters submerged vehicles and reached the doors of homes, forcing some residents to navigate streets using kayaks and rowboats.
Indiana Gov. Mike Braun said he had spoken with President Donald Trump and that an expedited Federal Emergency Management Agency disaster declaration was being processed.
“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,” Braun said. “Please continue to take flooding seriously and stay away from floodwaters.”
The National Weather Service said some areas received more than 11 inches of rain over two days. The White River climbed above 24 feet in Anderson and Noblesville, surpassing records dating back to 1913.
Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett declared a local emergency and urged residents living along the river to evacuate.
“This is one of those once-in-a-lifetime type floods,” said Jacob Spence, director of Marion County Emergency Management. “This is an unprecedented event and unfortunately we’re setting some new records.”
Another storm-related death was reported in Delaware County, where a 58-year-old woman was found dead after apparently attempting to drive through floodwaters.
Indiana Department of Homeland Security spokesperson Liz Woods also confirmed fatalities in Jennings, White, Porter and La Porte counties.
Flash flood warnings remained in effect across central Indiana as authorities warned that water levels were continuing to rise and additional storms were expected.
“The water is still rising, so heed the warnings,” said Todd Wilson, director of Indianapolis’ Department of Public Works.
The broader storm system also produced tornadoes, heavy rainfall and flash flooding across parts of the Midwest, with damage reported from the Chicago area to western Pennsylvania.
Source: Saudi Gazette