At least five people have died in Indiana after fierce storms and heavy rain caused flooding across the Midwestern US state over the past week. Rescue workers are continuing to search for people stranded by rising waters.
Indiana Governor Mike Braun said the federal government had pledged assistance and that President Donald Trump intended to approve the state’s request for a Presidential Emergency Declaration. The declaration had not yet been described as approved in the supplied material.
How the deaths occurred
Sheriff’s deputies in Delaware County said they found the body of a 58-year-old woman on Friday and believed she died while trying to drive through floodwaters. A four-year-old child died in Jennings County after a tree fell on a home, while law enforcement found the body of a teenager reported missing after jumping into a river.
Authorities have not provided further details about the other deaths in the supplied material. Emergency workers have used boats to rescue people from homes inundated by rising water.
Related coverage: Severe weather brings flash floods, tornado warnings, and power cuts to north-east US.
Flooding across Indiana
The White River in Indianapolis overflowed its banks during the week, contributing to dangerous flooding. Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett said the area was experiencing its worst flooding in more than 30 years.
The National Weather Service reported that some areas received more than 280mm, or 11 inches, of rain over two days. The rainfall followed a week of heavy precipitation that left waterways and homes affected across the state.
Federal assistance and safety warnings
Braun said on Saturday that he had spoken with Trump about the severe storms and historic flooding. According to the governor, Trump intended to approve Indiana’s request for a Presidential Emergency Declaration, which would allow the state to access greater resources.
More context: Colombia begins national mourning as earthquake rescue enters third day.
Authorities are warning people not to attempt to cross flooded areas in vehicles because cars can become stranded. Braun urged residents to take the flooding seriously and stay away from floodwaters while response and recovery efforts continue.
No comments yet. Start the discussion.