Severe Flooding in Indiana Causes Five Deaths and Major Damage

As of August 15, 2026, five deaths in Indiana have been linked to storms causing significant flooding, according to Governor Mike Braun. In Indianapolis, rescue teams saved many people and their pets as floodwaters rose along the White River. Emergency managers expect the number of rescues to increase as central Indiana continues to face flood threats.

Jacob Spence, director of Marion County Emergency Management, described the situation as a “once-in-a-lifetime type flood,” noting that it is unprecedented and has set new records. Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett, in coordination with emergency officials, urged residents along the river to evacuate. A local emergency was declared as heavy rains swelled creeks and streams throughout central Indiana.

Some rivers broke records set more than a century ago. The damage is mainly concentrated along the river corridor from Hamilton County into northern Indianapolis suburbs. In Delaware County, authorities found the body of a 58-year-old woman believed to have died after attempting to drive through floodwaters.

Governor Braun expressed condolences for the victims, urging people to stay away from dangerous floodwaters. The Delaware County Sheriff’s Office confirmed finding 18-year-old Matthew Morey’s body. Morey, an incoming Purdue University freshman, went missing after entering the Mississinewa River with friends.

The Yorktown Public Library reported severe impact, with about a foot of floodwater inside the building. They expressed gratitude for community support and are planning recovery efforts as water levels recede.

President Trump approved a presidential emergency declaration, unlocking up to $5 million in federal resources for response and recovery following the heavy rainfall. Flash flood warnings were in effect for central Indiana as more rain was expected. In Warren County, 2 inches of rain fell within six hours.

The White River crested at nearly 25 feet in Anderson, surpassing the 1913 record. The river was expected to crest in Indianapolis by Saturday evening, with National Guard vehicles aiding rescue operations. By midday, approximately 70 people had been rescued. Todd Wilson, of the public works department, warned residents to heed warnings as water levels continued to rise.

Social media videos depicted stranded vehicles, downed power poles, and flooded intersections. Earlier in the week, severe storms caused damage across the Midwest, including tornadoes and flash floods, affecting areas from Chicago to western Pennsylvania.