At least six people have died in Indiana after historic flooding that inundated multiple counties, officials said. While waters have begun to recede in some places, the National Weather Service warned that additional storms could bring more heavy rain and localized flooding.
A preliminary NWS report found some areas received more than 11 inches of rain over three days beginning Aug. 11. Thunderstorms were forecast to move across central Indiana late Sunday evening and could renew flood risks in communities already impacted by the earlier downpours.
Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett wrote on social media that the city was experiencing “its most severe flooding in 30+ years.” The Indianapolis Department of Public Works said floodwaters have started to drop and that crews have reopened some control gates. The department added that engineering teams will closely monitor levees, gates and other flood-control infrastructure, clear debris blocking natural flow, and continue regular checks as water levels change.
Rivers remain a concern. The White River at Anderson rose to a record 24.9 feet, and significant flooding was reported along the Wabash River and the East Fork White River. Utility company NIPSCO said more than 128,000 customers were without power as of Sunday afternoon, and repair crews were working to restore service.
Communities mobilized to protect vulnerable neighborhoods. In Rocky Ripple, northwest of Indianapolis, hundreds of volunteers gathered at a volleyball court with shovels and sandbags to shore up the town’s levee. Margaret Brabant, a Rocky Ripple resident since 1992 who coordinated incoming helpers while wearing a yellow life jacket, said, “This is pretty overwhelming, because the generosity is just stunning.” Many people who came to help were not from the town.
President Donald Trump approved an emergency declaration for Indiana on Saturday, enabling Federal Emergency Management Agency assistance for response and recovery efforts. The declaration makes federal resources available to state and local partners as they assess damage, clear debris and restore critical services.
The National Weather Service also warned of heavy rain and possible flooding in parts of West Virginia on Sunday as the system continues to move eastward.
Officials urged residents in flood-prone areas to stay alert to local advisories, avoid driving through floodwaters, and follow evacuation or shelter guidance where provided. NPR’s Laura Sullivan contributed reporting to this story.