At least 6 have died after severe storms caused heavy flooding in parts of Indiana, per TMZ. And now, per CBS News, President Trump has approved an Emergency Disaster Declaration.
The death toll had reached 5 as of August 15, but had been raised to 6 as of August 16. President Trump worked with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to issue the EDD.
FEMA explained they will "supplement state, tribal and local response efforts due to the emergency conditions resulting from severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding beginning on August 11, 2026, and continuing."
This comes after Governor Mike Braun of Indiana issued a Statewide Disaster Emergency. He announced the decision in a post on social media.
"I have declared a Statewide Disaster Emergency to strengthen Indiana's response to the widespread damage caused by this week's severe storms, flooding, tornadic activity, and derecho."
"This declaration mobilizes state agencies, unlocks emergency resources and gives us additional tools to support local response and recovery efforts."
"Hoosiers' safety is my top priority," he continued. "Our state response is fully mobilized, resources are moving where they're needed, and we will continue working around the clock to support every impacted community."
Attached to his social media post was the official statewide declaration, along with his signature.
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The Flooding is Waning
However, per ABC, the flooding appears to be waning. Christine Altman, president of the Hamilton County Board of Commissioners, commented on the state of the flooding at a press conference on Sunday morning.
"I must admit, it is a good morning," she said, also adding, "the water is receding."
However, she explained, "Hamilton County set records, unfortunately, with the level cresting at 24.6 feet." As of Sunday, August 16, the levels appear to have dipped to 21 feet. This was described as a "significant decrease".
Michael Hubbs, the director of the Commissioners' Administration Board, added, "The roads are becoming drier and clearer, but that does not mean that the hazard has stopped."
Our thoughts and prayers go out to those who are affected by these devastating floods. We hope that things go back to normal relatively soon.
