On Wednesday, a serious flash flood emergency was declared for east-central Indiana, particularly affecting Muncie and surrounding areas. The National Weather Service (NWS) issued this warning in response to extreme flooding that resulted from heavy rainfall. This urgent alert advised residents to immediately seek higher ground.
The warning, issued at 10:17 a.m. EDT, will remain in effect until 4:15 p.m. EDT. By this time, emergency reports indicated that rainfall in Muncie ranged from 3 to 6 inches, with another potential 2 inches. The NWS described ongoing flash flooding as especially dangerous.
This is a FLASH FLOOD EMERGENCY for Muncie. This is a PARTICULARLY DANGEROUS SITUATION. SEEK HIGHER GROUND NOW!
Authorities warned that life-threatening floods could affect roads, underpasses, and water bodies throughout urban areas of the city. Locations under this warning included Muncie, Yorktown, Chesterfield, Albany, Eaton, Daleville, Gaston, Selma, Ball State University, and the Prairie Creek Reservoir area.
Residents received advice to avoid non-essential travel except for evacuations. They were reminded of the warning, “turn around, don’t drown,” when encountering flooded streets.
Local reports showed flooding had forced evacuations in Muncie’s lower areas. Emergency services worked to rescue stranded drivers and handle submerged homes. Particularly, some neighborhoods in the city’s southern section were told to evacuate as water levels rose.
Delaware County Emergency Management advised on Facebook, “If significant flooding is approaching your home, consider evacuating now—before rising water makes it impossible to leave safely. Don’t wait until roads become impassable. Never drive through flooded roadways.”
The NWS rated the flood threat as catastrophic. The forecast expected heavy rain to continue through the afternoon.
This is a developing story. More information will be provided as it becomes available.