Indiana Governor declares statewide disaster emergency after severe storms

Governor Mike Braun has declared a statewide disaster emergency in Indiana following a series of severe weather events, including heavy flooding, tornadoes, and a destructive derecho that began on August 11. The storms have resulted in at least three deaths, widespread power outages affecting over 300,000 residents, and significant infrastructure damage.

In areas like Cambridge City, flooding has been described as catastrophic, with water reaching rooftops and impacting local water systems. Emergency responders, including the Indiana National Guard and the Department of Natural Resources, have been deployed for swift-water rescues and debris removal. The State Emergency Operations Center has been elevated to Emergency Conditions to coordinate the response.

Governor Braun has requested a Presidential Emergency Declaration through FEMA to secure federal assistance for emergency response costs, such as power restoration and rescue operations. Additionally, the Indiana Department of Homeland Security has issued warnings to residents regarding potential scammers targeting communities during the recovery process.