Story perspectives

Braun Declares Disaster Emergency; White River Breaks 1913 Record

8/15/2026

Summary

Braun Declares Disaster

Governor Mike Braun declared a statewide disaster emergency and secured a presidential declaration releasing up to $5 million.
Five people died in the floods, including victims in Delaware County and Gary.
The White River rose above 24 feet in Anderson and Noblesville, breaking the 1913 record by over a foot.
Rescue crews saved 91 people and 45 pets while the Indiana National Guard was mobilized statewide for rescues and cleanup.

Summary

Homeowners Lack Insurance

Many homeowners, including Cornerstone Campground owner Cyndee Gillmore, lack flood insurance, making repairs unaffordable.
FEMA’s flood-plain maps omit flash-flood risk, preventing properties such as those in New Castle from qualifying for coverage.
About 300 animals were moved from an Anderson shelter as rising water threatened the facility.
A farmer used a tractor to rescue a 2-year-old from a flooded Rush County home, who was later airlifted to Indianapolis.

History

Historical Context

In January 1937 heavy rains and ice jam caused the Ohio River to crest at record levels, flooding five states, displacing one million people and prompting Congress to pass the Flood Control Act on August 28 1937, which allocated nearly $25 million for Army Corps of Engineers floodwalls. That federal response laid the foundation for modern flood-insurance and mapping policies that shape today’s Indiana flood relief debates.

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Braun Declares Disaster

Governor Mike Braun declared a statewide disaster emergency and secured a presidential declaration releasing up to $5 million.
Five people died in the floods, including victims in Delaware County and Gary.
The White River rose above 24 feet in Anderson and Noblesville, breaking the 1913 record by over a foot.
Rescue crews saved 91 people and 45 pets while the Indiana National Guard was mobilized statewide for rescues and cleanup.

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