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Severe flooding in Indiana’s Ohio Valley Prompts Emergency Response

Infrastructure declared unstable amid ongoing rains and flooding in Indiana

News

Extreme Weather

By Staff

Back-to-back storms have brought historic flooding to Indiana and surrounding states, damaging roads, homes, and critical infrastructure.

The National Weather Service reported flash flooding on August 12, as ongoing rain washed out multiple roads in more than a dozen counties. Parts of the state saw between 5 and 10 inches of rain, while New Castle recorded nearly 13 inches.

The storms continued on August 16, prompting evacuation recommendations for hundreds of residents in Perry, Hamilton, and Marion counties. The extreme weather created dangerous conditions, including road washouts and structural damage to bridges and buildings. At least seven people have died, and local news outlets reported that more than a dozen counties have declared local disasters.

Direct Relief’s Response

Direct Relief is in communication with emergency response organizations in Indiana and Ohio to coordinate support and provide critical medications and supplies for people affected by the flooding.
Direct Relief continues to work with the Indiana Primary Health Care Association and health centers in Indianapolis, Cambridge City, and Hamilton County to assess operational needs.
Direct Relief is working with the Ohio Special Response Team in Perry County.
The organization is preparing to send emergency resources such as medications, emergency backpacks, hygiene kits, personal protective equipment, and N95 respirators, to support health and recovery after the disaster.

Flooding and Damage

Indiana is experiencing historic levels of rain water. The standing water can create hazardous health conditions for water-borne and vector-borne diseases. (Photo by the Indiana National Guard)

According to the National Weather Service, the White River reached historically high levels, rising to nearly 25 feet at Anderson, 18.64 feet in Muncie, and 24.5 feet in Noblesville.

Fall Creek, Flat Rock River, and Cicero Creek also reported historically high water levels. The high water began to recede on Monday.

Swift water rescues were conducted by emergency responders. Experts anticipate that the severe weather has destroyed infrastructure, submerged vehicles, and has devastated homes.

Health Risks

The unusual weather pattern can also affect health outcomes across the state. Standing water can increase exposure to water-borne illnesses and create breeding conditions for mosquitoes that spread vector-borne disease.

As cleanup continues, some residents are expected to experience displacement and long-term isolation. Weakened infrastructure could also make it difficult for people with chronic conditions to maintain access to needed medications.

Direct Relief will continue to provide updates and the situation evolves.

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