Twenty-one Indiana counties hard hit by January and February flooding qualified for federal disaster relief this year. Residents suffered extensive flooding not seen for decades in some areas. As of April, flood victims were still cleaning up and rebuilding.
"We've lived here 32 years. It's the first time it's ever been like this," said one flood victim.
A combination of melting snow and heavy rain caused record to near record flooding along the Tippecanoe River and other rivers and streams. As the waters rose, the Norway and Oakdale dams showed record releases. The flooding forced Hoosiers from their homes and killed three people, including two children. Some residents were lucky to escape with their lives - but they lost all of their belongings.
When evacuees finally returned, they faced damage totaling more than $33 million.
"I've had enough. I've been here ten years and I've had about three or four floods so I don't want to do this anymore," said another resident.
The Indiana Department of Homeland Security is urging southern Indiana residents to report damage from the flooding that occurred in late March.
Spokesman John Erickson says the information will be used to determine what kind of federal aid the state can request for the area.
The state wants to know about structural damage to homes and loss of personal property, as well as business losses.
Those wishing to report damage may call 866-210-1925, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday-Friday.
Indiana Department of Homeland Security
