Recent continuous heavy rain in the state of Indiana, United States, has triggered a “historic” flood. The persistent downpours have caused severe flooding along the White River, which flows through Indianapolis as well as the central and southern parts of Indiana.
According to a report by The Wall Street Journal on Sunday, the water level of the White River reached nearly 25 feet (about 7.6 meters) early Saturday morning, surpassing the record set in 1913.
Data from the National Water Prediction Service in the United States shows that this is the highest water level the White River has seen in over 110 years.
The National Weather Service issued flash flood warnings in most parts of central Indiana on Saturday, August 15, and predicted more showers and thunderstorms to come.
The Indiana Department of Homeland Security stated that at least six people have died in storm-related incidents across the state since August 11.
Among the six fatalities are a 4-year-old boy from Jennings County, a 19-year-old man and a 58-year-old woman from Delaware County, as well as residents from Lake County, Porter County, and LaPorte County.
Rita Reith, spokesperson for the Indianapolis Fire Department, mentioned that National Guard vehicles were involved in rescue operations, and as of Saturday noon, approximately 70 individuals along with their pets had been rescued in the city.
Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett declared a state of emergency for the city on Friday, August 14, urging residents along the river to evacuate promptly. The rising water levels in creeks and rivers across central Indiana had been caused by the days of heavy rain.
Forecast indicates that with local river levels yet to significantly recede, more storms are expected to impact the region. Several areas in Indiana are facing unprecedented disaster, with the future recovery and rebuilding efforts projected to be a lengthy process.
Anna Dungan, a resident living between Connersville and Cambridge City, shared her experience with NewsNation’s Elizabeth Vargas Reports, recalling the rapid rise in water levels after the rainfall that left residents struggling to cope with the “terrifying” situation.
She mentioned that volunteers and frontline rescuers swiftly initiated evacuation efforts, but hundreds of residents and businesses were severely affected by the flooding. Many people spent sleepless nights enveloped in fear, and the psychological and economic impacts of the flood are expected to linger for a long time.
Frank Toole, a retiree for 14 years relying on a pension, shared his memories on NewsNation’s On Balance program, expressing that despite a flood in 1993, the scale of the current disaster far surpasses the previous one.
Having been unable to afford flood insurance due to high premiums, Toole expressed uncertainty about the future rebuilding of his house relying on post-disaster assessments.
He revealed that only a few items of clothing were salvaged by his family, with almost all other belongings lost, stating, “we lost 98% of our possessions.” Uncertain about how to move forward with his life, he admitted, “I have no idea what to do next.”