INDIANAPOLIS — Indiana Gov. Mike Braun on Thursday issued a statewide disaster emergency and authorized deployment of the Indiana National Guard as the state responds to severe storms, widespread flooding, tornadic activity and a derecho that struck parts of the state this week.
Statewide mobilization to aid hard-hit communities
The declaration is intended to give state agencies broader authority to coordinate relief, unlock emergency funding and reassign resources where they are most needed. Braun also directed Guard units to support life‑saving operations and cleanup efforts in several northwest Indiana communities, specifically naming Gary, Munster and Hobart as locations where personnel and equipment will be positioned.
"This declaration mobilizes state agencies, unlocks emergency resources and gives us additional tools to support local response and recovery efforts,"
Officials said the Guard presence will supplement local responders as they conduct rescues, assist with evacuations, and help clear debris and restore access to damaged areas.
Historic river crests and local evacuations
Flooding reached record levels in parts of southeast Indiana, forcing both voluntary and mandatory evacuations. The West Fork Whitewater River near Alpine hit a historic crest of 21.78 feet, according to emergency reports. Authorities ordered people living along the Whitewater River in Dearborn County to leave their homes.
Nearby Franklin County reported ongoing self-evacuations and active rescue operations. County emergency management officials confirmed that residents have sheltered in Laurel and that first responders have completed multiple rescues. As of the latest local reports, no injuries had been reported from those operations.
In Fayette County, water levels in Connersville rose to about three to four feet in low-lying areas, submerging porches of some homes and prompting life-safety warnings from local officials.
What officials are asking residents to do
- Stay away from high water and flood zones to allow first responders to operate safely and efficiently.
- Follow evacuation orders and instructions from county emergency officials.
- Seek shelter information and assistance from local emergency management agencies.
Franklin County officials emphasized the importance of keeping roadways and damage areas clear so emergency crews can carry out rescues and response tasks.
Where resources are being staged
The National Guard has been positioned to provide personnel and equipment in northwest Indiana, with specific mention of Gary, Munster and Hobart. State agencies are coordinating with county and local responders to assess additional needs and deploy resources accordingly.
| Location | Reported impact |
|---|---|
| West Fork Whitewater River (near Alpine) | Historic crest: 21.78 ft |
| Dearborn County | Mandatory evacuations along the Whitewater River |
| Franklin County / Laurel | Self-evacuations; sheltering; 25 rescues reported |
| Connersville (Fayette County) | 3–4 feet of water in parts of town; porches submerged |
Local leaders reported that shelters are open for displaced residents. Emergency managers urged people who need assistance to contact their county emergency management office for shelter locations and further instructions.
Officials caution on increasing risks
Rising water and storm-related debris continue to present hazards across affected counties. Authorities reiterated that driving through flooded roads is dangerous and can impede rescue and recovery operations. Residents were advised to avoid nonessential travel in impacted areas.
The statewide declaration allows Indiana to tap additional funding and logistical support as recovery moves forward. State officials will continue to monitor conditions and update deployment plans based on local needs and weather forecasts.
WE NEWS will provide further updates as state and local agencies release more information on damage assessments, shelter availability and recovery timelines.
