Shelbyville, Indiana – Roads across central Indiana are filling with water tonight as repeated thunderstorms push rainfall totals past 2 inches, with up to 3 inches possible before 4:15 a.m. Wednesday.
According to the National Weather Service in Indianapolis, multiple Flood Advisories remain in effect through 4 to 4:15 a.m. for Decatur, Hancock, Henry, Rush, Shelby, Johnson, Morgan, Clay, Owen and Putnam counties. Radar estimates show 1 to 2 inches of rain has already fallen across much of the area, and an additional 1 to 3 inches could accumulate before the storms weaken.
Communities including Shelbyville, Greenwood, Franklin, Martinsville, Greensburg, Rushville and Mooresville are seeing ponding on neighborhood streets and rural highways. Low-water crossings, small creeks and poor drainage areas are especially vulnerable. Roads near Cagles Mill Lake and along State Road 44, State Road 67 and U.S. 31 could see brief high water before daybreak.
Emergency officials stress that most flood-related deaths occur in vehicles. Just a few inches of moving water can sweep a car off the roadway, particularly at night when visibility drops.
Avoid unnecessary travel until after 4 a.m. If you encounter a flooded road, turn around immediately. Additional advisories may be issued if rainfall continues into the early morning hours.
