(Laurel, IN) – Voluntary evacuations began in Laurel Wednesday night after flooding forced 14 people to shelter overnight in the town’s community center.
The Laurel Volunteer Fire Department said Thursday morning that water on Jackson Street was chest deep, and that rescue efforts were underway.
Firefighters say those who need help evacuating should call 9-1-1.
“Many of our friends, neighbors, and families have lost nearly everything, some escaping with nothing more than the clothes on their backs. The road to recovery will be long, and the full impact of this disaster may not be known for some time,” the Laurel Fire Department wrote on social media. “Our members have worked tirelessly in dangerous and extremely difficult conditions, assisting with evacuations and helping wherever they were needed. We are incredibly proud of their courage, dedication, and willingness to serve during our community’s darkest hours.
“We are also deeply grateful for the residents who stepped forward to help one another and for the numerous outside agencies that came without hesitation to assist in the response,” the department added. “In the face of tremendous loss, we have witnessed the true strength, compassion, and heart of this community.”
Public safety officials in the county are calling this flooding potentially historic; it was caused by heavy rains that started Tuesday evening during severe storms and continued for much of Wednesday.
The Whitewater River was expected to crest above flood stage sometime Thursday.
There have been no injuries reported.
Emergency shelters are also available at the Schilling Center in Brookville, Metamora Church of God, and the Metamora Community Center for county residents displaced by flooding.
