The Midwest braces for more heavy flooding, as Indiana seeks federal aid

This aerial photo provided by the Indianapolis Fire Department shows flooding in northern Indianapolis, Ind., Saturday, Aug. 15, 2026. Indianapolis Fire Department via AP/Indianapolis Fire Department hide caption

A relentless stretch of thunderstorms has brought devastating flooding across the Midwest, with additional bouts of heavy rainfall expected through at least Sunday, the National Weather Service said.

The NWS is predicting widespread storms this weekend through the Ohio Valley, Midwest and central Appalachians, bringing additional precipitation to already saturated areas that had just started to see floodwater recede. At least three people have died and more than 150,000 were without power as of Saturday afternoon.

Indiana and Ohio have been among the hardest-hit states, with rainfall totaling more than 11 inches in some areas over the past week. The White River in Anderson, Ind., rose to a record 24.9 feet, surpassing a flood mark that has stood since 1913.

Flash flood and flood warnings were in effect across central Illinois and central Indiana, the NWS said Saturday, and flood watches were in effect from Iowa and Missouri eastward to central West Virginia.

"I will do everything in my power to protect Hoosier lives and livelihoods as we respond to this historic severe weather," said Indiana Gov. Mike Braun, who has requested a presidential emergency declaration through FEMA for federal funding and resources. "I have mobilized state and local resources, declared a Statewide Disaster Emergency and deployed the Indiana National Guard."

In addition to the deluge of rain, parts of Indiana have also endured periodic tornadoes and a derecho over the past several days.

Cyndee Gillmore, who owns and operates the Cornerstone Campground and Retreat Center in New Castle, Ind., said 5 feet of water swept across the property flooding the kitchen, banquet hall, youth center and all the center's mobile campers.