INDIANA — Governor Mike Braun declared a statewide disaster emergency on Thursday following widespread destruction caused by severe storms, tornadic activity, heavy flooding, and a derecho that swept through the state this week.
A derecho is a powerful, long-lived windstorm driven by a fast-moving group of severe thunderstorms. Often called an “inland hurricane,” it produces widespread, destructive straight-line winds over 250 miles long with gusts frequently exceeding 58 mph and reaching up to 100 mph or more.
The executive order takes effect immediately and will remain in place for 30 days.
The governor announced the declaration on X (formerly Twitter), highlighting that the executive order mobilizes state resources and grants state agencies broader authorization to assist local municipalities during recovery efforts.
“Hoosiers’ safety is my top priority,” Gov. Braun wrote. “Our state response is fully mobilized, resources are moving where they’re needed, and we will continue working around the clock to support every impacted community.”
Unlocking State Emergency Resources
The multi-day storm system brought straight-line winds, extreme rainfall, washed-out roadways, and downpours that triggered widespread utility outages and structural damage from Northwest Indiana down to the southeastern region.
Under the disaster declaration:
- Homeland Security Coordination: The Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS) has been directed to coordinate emergency response efforts across state, local, and federal entities.
- Interagency Support: Multiple state bodies—including the Indiana State Police, Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT), Department of Natural Resources (DNR), and Department of Correction—are aiding local governments with water rescues, debris clearing, and infrastructure repairs.
- Resource Deployment: Emergency equipment, generators, and specialized support trailers are actively being routed to heavily impacted communities.
The emergency order allows state officials to streamline damage evaluations across impacted counties as local leaders consider whether to pursue federal relief through FEMA.
