Severe storms and historic floods kill seven and devastate Indiana communities

Since the storm system arrived on Aug. 11, Indiana has endured a multi-day onslaught of high-speed winds, torrential rain and historic river flooding, leaving seven people dead, according to the state emergency operations center. Victims include a 19-year-old man and a 58-year-old woman in Delaware County, a 4-year-old boy in Jennings County, two women in Lake and Porter counties, a man in LaPorte County, and a 31-year-old man in New Castle.

Governor Mike Braun issued a state of emergency to secure extra resources, while Hamilton County officials reported damage to hundreds of buildings and the total loss of a bridge south of 106th on Hazel Dell. The flooding was triggered by a derecho that generated 90-100 mph winds and more than 11 inches of rain, causing the White River to crest near 25 feet, surpassing the 1913 record. Evacuations swept through Delaware County and Indianapolis neighborhoods as authorities warned of imminent structural failures due to erosion. Recovery teams are now focused on assessment, cleanup and rebuilding efforts.