Full Notification

Flooding Concerns Continue Across the State This Week; Hoosiers Encouraged to Practice Safety

The Indiana Department of Homeland Security is reminding Hoosiers to practice safety as rainfall and flooding issues continue throughout the state this week.

Many counties in the state are under varying degrees of flood watch or warning, and motorists are encouraged to turn around and find an alternate route if a road is water covered or closed.

In areas where flooding is already underway:

· Do not walk or drive through any flooded areas. Flood waters can hide a washed out road or walkway. A few inches of fast-moving water can knock over and carry away an adult. A foot of fast-moving water can carry away a small car. Two feet of fast-moving water can carry away larger vehicles such as SUVs, vans or trucks. If a road is closed, obey traffic signs and find another route.
· Follow the directions of public safety officials. That includes evacuation orders, road closures or requests to stay at home or stay away from certain areas. Public officials give orders for public well-being. Follow their guidance.

If needed, and if conditions are safe, clear any debris that may obstruct water flow or drainage near storm sewer drains. High amounts of debris can impede the flow of water and contribute to potential flooding in residential areas, roads or other areas. Using a rake or shovel, clear storm drains while avoiding contact with flood water.

Contact local emergency management officials if any large obstructions are seen in rivers or creeks. Be patient, as it may take time for the issue to be addressed. If the issue is on private property, removal may fall on the property owner. ​

Flooding conditions can escalate quickly, so it is important to stay up to date on current weather conditions. Follow local TV and radio station reports or visit www.weather.gov.

Before traveling, residents should check the Indiana County Travel Advisory Map. The map is updated with information from the county emergency management agencies and describes the conditions for a travel warning, watch, advisory and caution. The map is available online at www.in.gov/dhs/traveladvisory or as an app, which can be downloaded in the iTunes store and the Google Play store. Search for “Indiana Travel Advisory” to locate the app.

To access more information on road closures, visit http://www.in.gov/indot/2420.htm for INDOT’s TrafficeWise and CARS programs, or call 800-261-ROAD. DO NOT call local law enforcement or 9-1-1 for road information. These lines need to be left open for emergency calls.

State homeland security and other state agencies continue to monitor the weather situation, as well as assist counties as local officials prepare and respond to flooding related issues throughout the state.

For more information about preparing for flooding and other severe weather visit GetPrepared.in.gov or follow the Indiana Department of Homeland Security on Twitter: @IDHS or Facebook: IndianaDHS.