Beginning at 8 a.m. Thursday, the Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS) will increase the staffing in the State of Indiana Emergency Operations Center (EOC) to assist local public safety officials with flooding issues.
“The safety of Hoosiers is of the highest priority to our administration,” said Governor Pence. “The State will remain vigilant of this situation and is prepared to assist victims of flooding that may occur in the coming days.”
The National Weather Service has issued several flood warnings for portions of rivers in northern and western Indiana, including the East Fork White River, Eel River, Little River, Mississinewa River, Salamonie River, St. Mary’s River, Tippecanoe River, Wabash River, White River, and Wildcat Creek.
It is expected that parts of the state could see an additional half-inch of rain on Thursday, and up to four inches of new precipitation could fall in southern Indiana by Sunday due to Tropical Depression Bill.
The State EOC will be staffed by members of the Indiana Department of Homeland Security, Indiana Department of Corrections, Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Indiana State Police and the American Red Cross.
The additional staff members will assist the Emergency Operations Center manager and IDHS watch officers with situational awareness, and coordinate with local public safety professionals, including emergency management, emergency medical services, firefighters and law enforcement. EOC personnel also will assist with coordination of assets for road safety, sand bag operations, water rescues and sheltering needs.
Hoosiers in need of assistance are encouraged to call their local emergency management agency. Contact information for each emergency management agency can be found at http://www.in.gov/dhs/2797.htm