At least five people have died in the U.S. state of Indiana, in the Midwest, after the region experienced heavy rain and severe flooding over the past week, according to local officials.
Rescue crews are continuing to search for people trapped by the impact of the violent storms. The White River in Indianapolis and several other waterways have overflowed their banks, causing dangerous flooding.
Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett said the area is experiencing its worst flooding in more than 30 years. The U.S. National Weather Service recorded rainfall exceeding 280mm (11 inches) in some areas in just two days.
Indiana Governor Mike Braun requested that the President declare a state of emergency on Friday to access greater resources for the state. By Saturday, he issued a public statement confirming that the federal government had pledged support.
“I spoke with President Donald Trump about the severe storms and historic flooding affecting Indiana, and he informed me he would approve our request for an emergency declaration,” Governor Braun, a Republican, wrote on social media. “I am grateful to President Trump for his commitment to support Hoosiers in accessing federal aid as we continue to respond and recover.”
Rescue workers have used boats to rescue people from homes submerged by floodwaters.
According to Delaware County police, the body of a 58-year-old woman was found on Friday, believed to have died while trying to drive through flooded areas. Jennings County police also confirmed a 4-year-old boy died when a tree fell on a house, and the body of a teenager who went missing after jumping into a river was also found.
“I extend my deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of the five Hoosiers who lost their lives and all the families whose lives have been affected by these storms,” Governor Braun said on Saturday. “Please take flood warnings seriously and stay away from floodwaters.”
Local officials warned residents not to attempt to drive through flooded areas, as vehicles can become trapped in fast-moving water.
