Gov. Braun Requests Presidential Emergency Declaration After Six Days of Storms

Gov. Mike Braun requested a presidential emergency declaration through FEMA on August 14, seeking federal resources for Indiana communities battered by six days of severe storms, flooding, and power outages.

The request escalates beyond the statewide disaster emergency Braun declared on August 13. If granted, federal money would cover emergency response costs including power restoration, water rescues, and immediate community needs. The Indiana National Guard has been deployed and remains in the field.

The storms have killed three people statewide, destroyed homes and businesses, damaged roads and bridges, displaced families, and knocked out emergency communications. Power outages peaked at more than 300,000 customers. The White River broke its 113-year flood record at Anderson, cresting at 24.93 feet — surpassing the previous record of 23.6 feet set during the Great Flood of 1913. Parts of Indiana experienced a 1-in-1,000-year rainfall event, with New Castle receiving over 11 inches of rain in a single 24-hour period.

More than 50 Indiana counties have declared weather emergencies, and Blackford County is on the list — formally linking it to the statewide disaster response. FEMA has not yet officially announced any federal disaster assistance for Indiana.

If the presidential declaration is granted, federal resources become available for qualifying communities. The Blackford County Commissioners meeting Monday, August 17, is the first opportunity to formally address the county's damage assessment and any request for FEMA assistance.

Source: IndyStar, WISH-TV, Pharos Tribune, IndyStar — 50+ county emergencies