Story perspectives

Trump to Approve Indiana Emergency Declaration, Unlocking $5 Million Aid

8/16/2026

Summary

Trump Approves Aid

President Donald Trump intends to approve Indiana’s Emergency Declaration on August 15, 2026, unlocking up to $5 million in aid.
The National Weather Service recorded 11 inches of rain, sending the White River above 24 feet, the highest level since 1913.
State officials confirmed five deaths, including a 4-year-old boy, a 58-year-old woman and a missing teen.
About 150,000 customers lacked power as Governor Mike Braun declared an emergency and deployed Guard and DNR personnel.

Summary

Firefighters Rescue

Indianapolis Fire Department rescued 95 residents and 45 pets in 51 water rescues by 5 p.m. Saturday.
The American Red Cross opened shelters for pet-less residents at Washington Township Schools and for pet owners at Broad Ripple Park, while Citizens Energy Group halted its White River North water-treatment plant and urged water-use limits.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers monitored a leaky levee at Warfleigh while officials closed floodgates and considered shutting Westfield Boulevard.

History

Historical Context

In March 1913 heavy rains caused the Great Flood, raising the White River and other waterways to record levels and killing an estimated 650 people across Indiana, Ohio and ten other states. Governor Samuel M. Ralston declared a state emergency, mobilized the Indiana National Guard and oversaw $25 million in damage estimates, prompting the 1917 Flood Control Act that began federal flood-management programs.

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Trump Approves Aid

President Donald Trump intends to approve Indiana’s Emergency Declaration on August 15, 2026, unlocking up to $5 million in aid.
The National Weather Service recorded 11 inches of rain, sending the White River above 24 feet, the highest level since 1913.
State officials confirmed five deaths, including a 4-year-old boy, a 58-year-old woman and a missing teen.
About 150,000 customers lacked power as Governor Mike Braun declared an emergency and deployed Guard and DNR personnel.

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