Indiana receives federal disaster declaration for 21 counties

President Donald Trump has approved a major disaster declaration for 21 Indiana counties following severe storms, tornadoes, a derecho, and flooding that began on August 11. The declaration provides individual assistance to households and public assistance for infrastructure repairs in several counties, including Lake, Marion, and Porter.

Governor Mike Braun reported that the storms resulted in eight deaths, hundreds of evacuations, and significant property damage. Early estimates suggest residential property damage could range from $550 million to over $5 billion. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will oversee the distribution of funds.

In the city of Anderson, local officials are providing immediate relief while awaiting federal aid. Mayor Thomas Broderick Jr. announced that the city is earmarking $600,000 to provide $1,000 payments to up to 600 households significantly affected by the flooding. The mayor noted that this local fund is a stopgap measure, as property damage in Anderson alone is estimated at approximately $50 million.