Indiana braces for more storms as flood recovery continues
The National Weather Service issued a severe thunderstorm watch for central Indiana, while local officials and volunteers work to clear flood damage and support residents after historic flooding.
Heavy rain is expected to bring flash flooding to central Indiana tonight, prompting the National Weather Service to issue a severe thunderstorm watch through 9 p.m. Sunday for Marion County and about 20 surrounding counties. The watch forecasts wind gusts up to 70 mph and quarter-size hail, with the main storm cluster moving from Illinois toward the region until 8 p.m.
In the Riverwood area north of Noblesville, residents are beginning the cleanup of homes damaged by three feet of floodwater that receded on Aug. 16. Lawrence Gordon, whose family has owned a house on Tippecanoe Drive for decades, said the water reached knee-deep inside the home and that many neighbors lack flood insurance, leaving them to handle repairs on their own. He plans to remove drywall, flooring and cabinets to prevent mold growth.
The Indianapolis Department of Public Works reopened the flood gates at 52nd Street in Rocky Ripple and in north Broad Ripple, allowing traffic to resume and businesses to reopen after more than 36 hours of closure. Volunteers have been stationed in Rocky Ripple since Friday, filling sandbags and reinforcing the earthen levee to keep the White River from breaching the town.
The Indianapolis Colts and Pacers Sports & Entertainment announced a joint donation of $250,000 to the American Red Cross for flood relief. Colts co-owner Kalen Jackson urged Hoosiers to support one another as the recovery effort continues.
Hamilton County officials opened a reception center at the county fairgrounds to provide food, supplies and assistance to displaced residents. Emergency Operations director Chad Knecht advised those in need to call a dedicated hotline for resources.
Statewide, at least six storm-related deaths have been confirmed since Aug. 11, including a bicyclist who fell into a sinkhole in New Castle and several flood victims in other counties.
The National Weather Service continues to monitor river levels, noting that the White River crested at 24.6 feet in Hamilton County, a record exceeding a century-old high. Officials warned that additional rain could slow the recession of water and keep the area under a state of emergency.