Governor Mike Braun declared a Statewide Disaster Emergency across Indiana on Thursday as communities grapple with severe storm damage, historic flooding, and a recent derecho. The emergency executive order, announced just before noon, is designed to expedite state assistance and provide local emergency responders with crucial tools to handle ongoing crises across multiple counties.
The declaration is effective immediately and will remain in place for the next 30 days, according to 21Alive News. It mandates that state agencies, local governments, and emergency teams coordinate their efforts in an expedited manner to support families and infrastructure affected by days of severe weather.
“Hoosiers’ safety is my top priority. Our state response is fully mobilized, resources are moving where they’re needed, and we will continue working around the clock to support every impacted community,” Governor Braun wrote in his announcement.
Mobilization of the Indiana National Guard and Emergency Resources
To bolster local emergency management, Governor Braun authorized the mobilization of the Indiana National Guard. Troops and state resources are being directed to provide specialized support in Gary, Munster, and Hobart, where heavy downpours and rising waters have strained municipal infrastructure.
The executive order unlocks additional state emergency resources, enabling assets to be deployed directly to areas experiencing severe flood impacts.
Counties Activated and Public Safety Directives
Indiana 211 has been officially activated for several heavily affected counties, including Franklin, Henry, Lake, LaPorte, Madison, Newton, Porter, and Pulaski. Residents in these zones can report property damage by dialing 211 or calling 866-211-9966, or by visiting the official Indiana 211 web portal.
State agencies have also released a list of vital links and emergency contact lines for citizens seeking safe shelter or assistance:
- Emergencies: Always dial 911 for immediate life-safety threats.
- Cooling Centers: Locations and availability can be found at on.in.gov/coolingcenters.
- Red Cross Shelters: Residents can locate open shelters by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767) or by utilizing the Red Cross Emergency App.
- Road Conditions: For updated lane closures and travel advisories, consult 511in.org or check the Travel Advisory Map.
Ongoing Response and What Comes Next
The 30-day disaster declaration allows the state to maintain a heightened operational posture while damage assessments continue across the region.
We welcome your thoughts and local updates in the comments below. Please share this report to help keep your community informed during this emergency response.
