Kathmandu— At least five people have died this week due to severe storms and resulting floods that have impacted the state of Indiana, with first responders conducting numerous rescues Saturday from rising waters along the White River in Indianapolis. The state has experienced heavy rainfall over the past week, causing rivers to reach record levels and forcing residents to evacuate their homes. More than a dozen counties have declared local disasters, particularly those along river corridors north of Indianapolis. President Trump approved an emergency declaration for Indiana, making federal disaster assistance available.

Widespread Evacuations and Rescues

Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett stated the city is experiencing its most severe flooding in over 30 years, with conditions changing rapidly. Hundreds of homes located near the White River and parallel canals were evacuated Saturday as first responders used boats to rescue stranded residents. As of late afternoon, the Indianapolis Fire Department reported rescuing 95 people and 45 pets, responding to hundreds of calls for service throughout the day. Evacuations also occurred in Delaware and Tipton counties, including a senior mobile home community.

Record-Breaking Rainfall and River Levels

Jacob Spence, director of Marion County Emergency Management, described the flooding as an unprecedented event, noting that new records are being set. The National Weather Service reported over 11 inches (28 centimeters) of rain fell in some areas over two days. The White River crested at more than 24 feet (7.32 meters) in Anderson and Noblesville, surpassing the previous record set in 1913. While floodwaters were receding north of Indianapolis, flash-flood warnings remained in effect across central Indiana.

Impact on Communities

Residents shared videos on social media depicting submerged homes, stranded vehicles, toppled power poles, and washed-away roads. In Noblesville, the White River had already crested overnight, leaving homes flooded and fields saturated, though the historic Potter’s Bridge remained standing. City photographer Matt Doudt noted that while damage is significant, the community is grateful no lives were lost and rescue efforts have been effective. The flooding in Noblesville was caused by heavy rainfall upstream, with water rushing down towards the city and eventually Indianapolis.

Federal and State Response

President Donald Trump approved an emergency declaration for Indiana, unlocking federal disaster assistance through FEMA. Governor Eric Holcomb’s office reported over 350 evacuations in Delaware County. Senator Todd Young issued a statement expressing sympathy for the families of those lost and urging residents to take flooding seriously.

Cleanup efforts are underway in upstream communities as floodwaters begin to recede, with ongoing monitoring of river levels and continued assistance provided to affected residents.

(With inputs from AP)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.