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Hamilton County Commissioners declared a state of emergency Friday morning as steady rainfall continues to worsen flooding conditions in the area, leading to road closures and water rescues.
More than 30 roads have been closed due to flooding, a news release stated, including:
“Declaring a State of Emergency gives us the ability to respond quickly, coordinate resources, and get help where it’s needed most,” said Hamilton County Commissioner Steve Dillinger in a news release. “Our priority right now is keeping people safe and supporting the communities being hit hardest.”
Officials said flooding is creating significant challenges in Atlanta, Arcadia, Jackson Township, and White River Township, where local resources are becoming strained.
The Jackson Township Fire Department is flooded, and a wastewater substation along State Road 19 in Atlanta has gone down.
The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office has responded to multiple water rescues Friday, a news release stated. The public is asked to follow directions from local law enforcement and first responders during the state of emergency.
Hamilton County under Travel Watch – what that means
Hamilton County has upgraded its Travel Advisory to an orange Travel Watch, meaning conditions are threatening to the safety of the public. During a Travel Watch, only essential travel, such as to and from work or in emergency situations, is recommended.
“Please stay away from areas of high water and never drive around barricades or through a closed or flooded roadway,” said Ryan Tennessen, Deputy Director of Hamilton County Emergency Management in a news release. “More rain is coming, and conditions can change quickly. We need people in areas prone to flooding to be prepared to leave and not wait until the water is at their door.”
Areas north of Hamilton County receives up to 3″ rain overnight
Communities north of Hamilton County received as much as an additional 3 inches of rain overnight, a news release stated, sending more water downstream and adding to already elevated river levels.
Officials said the White River is expected to reach approximately 18.8 feet Friday morning and crest to nearly 20 feet around 2 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 15, 2026. Emergency officials caution that the crest could rise even higher with additional rain in the forecast.
This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Hamilton County declares state of emergency amid flooding, road closures
Reporting by John Tufts, Indianapolis Star / Indianapolis Star
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By John Tufts, Indianapolis Star | USA TODAY Network
