5 Dead as Severe Storms and Historic Flooding Devastate Indiana

At least five people have died after severe storms and flash flooding swept across the U.S. Midwest state of Indiana, causing widespread destruction and forcing hundreds of residents to evacuate, local authorities said on Saturday.

According to The Indianapolis Star, dozens of people have been rescued from flood-affected areas, while hundreds have been displaced from their homes as emergency crews continue search and recovery operations.

Indiana Governor Mike Braun said in a statement that the storm system began impacting the state on Tuesday. The extreme weather included tornadoes and a derecho—a widespread, long-lived windstorm capable of causing extensive damage over large areas.

Local media reported that the victims included a 58-year-old woman whose vehicle was believed to have been swept away by floodwaters, an 18-year-old man who jumped into a swollen river with friends, and a four-year-old child who was killed when a tree fell onto a house.

Television footage showed rivers overflowing their banks, with muddy floodwaters rising nearly to the base of bridges as rescue teams navigated the fast-moving currents on inflatable rafts.

Governor Braun said in a post on X that he had spoken with President Donald Trump on Saturday about the "devastating storms and historic flooding" and requested federal disaster assistance for the state.

Indiana Homeland Security Director Jonathan Whitam said the state would require an "extensive cleanup and recovery effort" as officials continue to assess the full extent of the damage.

Emergency responders remain on high alert as floodwaters persist in several areas, while authorities have urged residents to avoid flooded roads and follow evacuation orders where necessary.