INDIANAPOLIS — The heavy rains began on August 12, when a powerful storm system dumped several inches of rain in the eastern and central parts of the state. The rain didn’t let up until August 15 in many areas, with a total of 11-17 inches falling in Henry County. Rain fell into tributaries to the White River, then into the river itself at a record rate. A day or two later, closer to Indianapolis, Muncie and Anderson saw river levels rise to 24 feet, surpassing the levels of the historic 1913 flood. Noblesville and Fishers saw flash flooding before the waters moved south. On Saturday, August 15, rain continued to fall, and Indianapolis Dept. of Public Works shut the flood gates at Broad Ripple, Rocky Ripple, and other locations along the White River. Residents of Ravenswood and Rocky Ripple neighborhoods were urged to evacuate the area. As the crest traveled south, parts of Morgan County flooded, and at least a dozen residents had to be rescued. Officials have stated that the flood that has, at this writing, killed seven people, is the worst on record
The storms and flooding have resulted in evacuations, damaged homes and infrastructure, and emergency rescue operations across central Indiana. Among the impact in Indianapolis neighborhoods:
• 56 rescue operations conducted by the Indianapolis Fire Department, involving approximately 100 people and 48 pets
• Hundreds of residents were evacuated from homes across central Indiana
Part of Hazel Dell Parkway bridge in Carmel was washed away, and the Martin Marietta quarry flooded. River Road Apartments had to be evacuated due to erosion from the floods destabilizing the foundations. Fall Creek Parkway, Millersville, and many other roads were closed due to flooding.
In addition, Governor Mike Braun announced that the federal government intends to approve the Governor’s request for a Presidential Emergency Declaration. The approval makes up to $5 million in federal assistance available to support emergency response efforts across Indiana.
The federal declaration will help cover eligible emergency response costs, including many of the operations already underway across Indiana.
Volunteer organizations will be on the scene for some time to help residents recover. For information about FEMA assistance, community resources, and more, visit indy.gov
