At least 6 dead as record-setting flooding inundates US state of Indiana

Indiana is grappling with the aftermath of record-setting storms and flooding, which have claimed at least six lives since August 11. The deluge has caused significant disruption across the state, with floodwaters peaking in Indianapolis' White River on Sunday.

Among the deceased are a 4-year-old boy, two men, and three women. In Jennings County, the young boy died when a tree crashed through his bedroom during severe winds. "This is obviously unexpected," said Deputy Chief Cody Low of Jennings County, acknowledging the community's struggle to cope with the tragedy.

In Delaware County, the body of 19-year-old Matthew Morey was recovered on Saturday. Officials believe he had jumped off a bridge into the Mississinewa River with friends three days prior. Family and friends had gathered at the bridge to mourn the recent high school graduate, who was preparing to attend Purdue University, and to warn others about the dangers of swollen rivers.

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This is obviously unexpected. There’s nothing we can say that is going to make it any better. We’re going to push through this as a community.

Stephanie Sallee, 58, and her dog were also recovered from a cornfield on Saturday in Delaware County. Authorities suspect her car was swept away while she was driving on a flooded road. Her family remembered her as a compassionate and loving individual who cherished her grandchildren and other young relatives.

Indianapolis experienced the peak of the flooding from the White River early Sunday morning. While high water levels were expected to persist for a few hours before receding, the city's Department of Public Works announced plans to reopen floodgates. Emergency shelters continued to provide refuge for hundreds of residents evacuated from homes along the river and its canals. First responders utilized boats to rescue individuals stranded by the rapidly rising waters.

Meanwhile, recovery efforts have commenced in the northern parts of the state, which are beginning to dry out. Christine Altman, president of the Hamilton County board of commissioners, expressed relief, stating, "It's not raining, and the water is receding." Although Hamilton County, north of Indianapolis, escaped fatalities, officials are assessing damage to a significant bridge, determining whether it requires repair or complete replacement. The National Weather Service cautioned that heavy rain and flash flooding remained possible in central Indiana throughout Sunday.

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I must admit it is a good morning. It’s not raining, and the water is receding.