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Indiana Floods Shatter 113-Year Records
15 Aug
Summary
- White River crests higher than in 1913's Great Flood.
- A 1-in-1,000-year rainfall event struck east-central Indiana.
- At least three storm-related deaths confirmed in Indiana.
Indiana is grappling with severe flooding as the White River reached historic crests this week, surpassing levels not seen since the Great Flood of 1913. This catastrophic event follows a derecho that saturated the ground, and a stalled frontal system that delivered what meteorologists are classifying as a 1-in-1,000-year rainfall over east-central Indiana.
Governor Mike Braun declared a statewide disaster emergency and mobilized the National Guard, also submitting a formal request to FEMA for a presidential disaster declaration. Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett issued a local emergency declaration, with floodwaters impacting communities like Cambridge City, Muncie, Anderson, and Noblesville.
At least three storm-related deaths have been confirmed, including a child killed by a fallen tree during the initial derecho. Hundreds of residents have been rescued by boat from submerged homes and vehicles. The White River at Indianapolis is forecast to crest well above flood stage and remain there until at least Tuesday, August 18.
