**At Least Five Reported Dead Amid Flooding in Indiana**
**Indianapolis, Indiana – August 15, 2026** – Indiana is grappling with severe flooding and fierce storms that have resulted in at least five fatalities, as rescue efforts continue across the state. The Indianapolis Fire Department has been actively engaged in rescuing residents stranded by the rising waters, which have inundated homes and communities over the past week.
Governor Mike Braun has been vocal about the state's needs in the wake of this disaster, calling for a presidential emergency declaration on Friday. This request was aimed at securing additional federal resources to aid in the response and recovery efforts. On Saturday, Braun announced that President Donald Trump had pledged to approve the emergency declaration, a move that is expected to facilitate the provision of much-needed assistance to the affected areas.
In a social media post, Braun expressed gratitude for the federal support, stating, “I’m grateful to President Trump for his commitment to getting Hoosiers the federal assistance we need as we continue responding and recovering.” The governor's remarks underscore the seriousness of the situation, as emergency workers have utilized boats to navigate through flooded neighborhoods to reach those in distress.
The flooding has been particularly severe in Indianapolis, where the White River overflowed its banks, leading to what Mayor Joe Hogsett described as the worst flooding the area has seen in over three decades. The National Weather Service reported that some regions received more than 280mm (approximately 11 inches) of rain within just two days, exacerbating the already critical conditions.
Tragically, the flooding has claimed lives, including that of a 58-year-old woman found by sheriff deputies in Delaware County. Authorities believe she died while attempting to drive through floodwaters. Additionally, a four-year-old child lost their life when a tree fell on a home in Jennings County, and a teenager who had gone missing after jumping into a river was later recovered by law enforcement.
Governor Braun expressed his condolences, stating, “My heart is with the families and loved ones of the five Hoosiers we have lost and every family whose life has been changed by these storms.” He urged residents to take the flooding seriously and to avoid any areas affected by high water.
As rescue operations continue, local authorities are stressing the importance of safety, advising against attempts to cross flooded roadways, as vehicles can easily become stranded or swept away. The community remains on high alert as the situation develops, with emergency services working tirelessly to mitigate the impact of the ongoing disaster.
The flooding in Indiana is part of a broader pattern of severe weather affecting various regions across the Midwest, highlighting the increasing frequency and intensity of such weather events. As communities come together to support one another during this challenging time, the focus remains on recovery and ensuring the safety of all residents.