Indianapolis: At least six people have died in Indiana after a powerful storm system brought more than 11 inches of rain to parts of the US state, triggering historic flooding and widespread rescue efforts, according to authorities.
According to Anadolu Agency, flooding was concentrated along the White River from Hamilton County into the northern Indianapolis suburbs, where more than 90 people and 45 pets were rescued. In Indianapolis’ Ravenwood neighborhood, floodwaters submerged cars and reached the doors of homes as residents used kayaks and rowboats to move through the streets.
Governor Mike Braun noted that he had spoken with President Donald Trump regarding an expedited Federal Emergency Management Agency declaration. “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 stated. He urged residents to take flooding seriously and avoid floodwaters.
The National Weather Service reported that some areas received more than 11 inches of rain over two days. The White River rose above 24 feet in Anderson and Noblesville, surpassing records set in 1913. Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett urged residents along the river to evacuate after declaring a local emergency.
Jacob Spence, director of Marion County Emergency Management, described the event as unprecedented and noted the setting of new records. Another storm-related death occurred in Delaware County, where a 58-year-old woman was found dead after attempting to drive through floodwaters. Indiana Department of Homeland Security spokesperson Liz Woods confirmed fatalities in Jennings, White, Porter, and La Porte counties.
Flash flood warnings remained in effect across central Indiana, with more storms expected. Todd Wilson, director of Indianapolis’ public works department, warned the public to heed the warnings as the water levels continued to rise.
The storms also caused tornadoes, heavy rain, and flash flooding across the Midwest, affecting areas from the Chicago region to western Pennsylvania.