Six Dead as Record Floods Sweep Indiana Amid Ongoing Storms

At least six fatalities have been reported across several Indiana counties after a three-day rain event that delivered more than 11 inches of precipitation beginning on Aug. 11, according to a preliminary National Weather Service report. The heavy rainfall triggered historic flooding along the White River, the Wabash River and the East Fork White River, with the White River in Anderson reaching a record 24.9 feet.

The National Weather Service warned that thunderstorms moving across central Indiana late Sunday could exacerbate flooding in already affected areas. More than 128,000 residents were without power on Sunday afternoon, according to local utility NIPSCO.

Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett said the city was experiencing its most severe flooding in over three decades, while the Indianapolis Department of Public Works reported that flood waters were beginning to recede and some flood gates had been reopened. The department added that engineers would continue to monitor levees, control gates and debris to ensure infrastructure operates as expected.

Community volunteers gathered in Rocky Ripple, a town northwest of Indianapolis, to reinforce the local levee with shovels and sandbags. Resident Margaret Brabant, who has lived in the area since 1992, directed volunteers and noted the scale of the response.

President Donald Trump approved an emergency declaration for Indiana on Saturday, enabling FEMA assistance for recovery efforts. The National Weather Service also issued a forecast for heavy rain and possible flooding in West Virginia on Sunday.