Five dead amid flooding in Indiana

A series of intense storms and flooding have claimed at least five lives in Indiana, Midwestern United States, according to agencies reporting on the situation. Rescue operations are ongoing as the storms have inundated the state over the past week. Governor Mike Braun had requested a presidential emergency declaration on Friday, appealing for additional federal resources to aid in the recovery efforts.

On Saturday, Governor Braun announced that the federal government had pledged assistance following a conversation with President Trump. The White River in Indianapolis overflowed its banks, leading to dangerous flooding. Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett declared that the area is experiencing its worst flooding in over 30 years, with more than 280mm (11 inches) of rain falling over two days in some regions.

Sheriff deputies in Delaware County reported finding the body of a 58-year-old woman who died attempting to drive through floodwaters. Authorities have cautioned against crossing flooded areas in vehicles, as they can become stranded. Additionally, a four-year-old child tragically lost their life when a tree fell onto a home in Jennings County, and law enforcement discovered the body of a missing teenager who had jumped into a river.

Governor Braun expressed his condolences to the families of the five Hoosiers who lost their lives and to all those whose lives have been affected by the storms. He urged the public to take the flooding seriously and to avoid attempting to cross flooded areas in cars.