Flooding Crisis in Indiana

Residents in Indianapolis found themselves navigating through flooded neighborhoods in kayaks on Sunday, August 16, 2026. The area has been grappling with historic flooding that has claimed the lives of at least six individuals across multiple counties. Despite some of the hardest-hit areas starting their recovery process, severe weather conditions persist and are anticipated to impact the region further.

The state faced over 11 inches of rainfall within a three-day period starting from August 11. The National Weather Service has warned that thunderstorms are expected to sweep across central Indiana late Sunday, potentially exacerbating the flooding situation.

Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett announced on social media that this flooding marks the most severe in the city in over 30 years. However, floodwaters are beginning to recede, leading to the reopening of some flood gates as confirmed by the Indianapolis Department of Public Works. Their statement emphasized that engineering teams are actively monitoring flood-control measures such as levees and control gates, ensuring functionality while clearing debris and assessing further gate operations.

The White River near Anderson, Indiana, has reached a record stage of 24.9 feet, while flooding persists along the Wabash River and East Fork White River. Across the state, more than 128,000 residents were left without electricity as of Sunday afternoon, reported by the local power company, NIPSCO. Repair crews are diligently working to restore power as communities pull together to support one another.

Rocky Ripple, a town northwest of Indianapolis, saw hundreds gather at a local volleyball court on Sunday. Armed with shovels and sandbags, residents and volunteers worked to bolster the town’s levee. Margaret Brabant, a longtime resident since 1992, coordinated the efforts, guiding vehicles filled with volunteers, many of whom were not from the town. Expressing her gratitude, Brabant shared with WFYI, “The generosity is just stunning.”

Federal aid will support recovery from the storm after President Donald Trump approved an emergency declaration for the state. The National Weather Service also forecasts heavy rainfall and potential flooding for West Virginia on Sunday.