June 7, 2008

Heavy rains lead to severe flooding

       It began raining around 9 p.m. the night before and by about mid-day Saturday, close to nine inches of rain fell throughout White River Township and surrounding areas.  The incredible amount of rain in such a short period of time caused the area's tributaries to quickly fill and overflow their banks leading to widespread and catastrophic flooding.  The National Weather Service out of Indianapolis is claiming that the flooding is the worst in the area in over ninety-five years.

    As of 10 p.m. this evening, the White River Township Fire Department had responded to over forty-five calls for help within the district.  Many of these individual calls were for evacuations of entire neighborhoods, which took an enormous amount of resources.  With the help of off-duty firefighters, other emergency responders, and even countless citizens, the department was able to safely rescue the hundreds of people left stranded by the rapidly rising flood waters.  Fortunately, no injuries were reported, however it will be several days before the full extent of the damage is known.  In addition to the flood-related responses, the department also responded to an unusually high number of medical and fire related incidents as well.  An emergency shelter was set up at the Gathering Place at the Community Church of Greenwood at 1477 W. Main Street.  Anyone needing emergency shelter should report there to speak with a Red Cross representative.  A few photos from throughout the area are shown below.


 

           

           
(Click on a thumbnail to enlarge photo)
 
    

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