Deadly Indiana Floods Trigger Federal Emergency, Mass Evacuations

President Donald Trump approved a Presidential Emergency Declaration for Indiana after flooding killed at least seven people, officials said. The declaration followed Gov. Mike Braun’s request and makes up to $5 million available for eligible emergency response costs, including water rescues, evacuations, shelters, sandbagging and emergency supplies. Indiana’s disaster began August 11, when repeated storms dropped more than 11 inches of rain in some areas, according to the National Weather Service. The White River reached record levels, including 24.6 feet at Noblesville and 21.18 feet at Indianapolis, surpassing records from 1913. Hundreds of residents were evacuated, while emergency crews conducted numerous rescues. Power outages peaked above 300,000 customers statewide before declining. By August 17, floodwaters were receding in Indianapolis, but some neighborhoods remained unsafe and recovery continued. The state activated the National Guard and coordinated emergency agencies. Federal assistance covers response operations, while broader individual aid remains a separate process.