08/13/2026
Date: 8-13-2026
Time: 9:00 AM
Subject: Wayne County Flooding Update #3
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wayne County continues response operations following historic flooding across the county. While floodwaters are beginning to recede in some areas, significant hazards remain, and additional rainfall is expected later today.
OVERNIGHT WATER RESCUES
Emergency responders conducted 12 water rescues overnight. Residents are reminded to stay away from flooded areas and never drive through standing or moving water.
I-70 WESTBOUND CLOSURE
I-70 westbound is closed just east of Centerville Road near the 146-mile marker due to flooding and damage to the roadway. Motorists should avoid the area and follow official detours.
WHEN CAN I RETURN HOME?
We understand residents are anxious to return to their homes. As floodwaters recede, emergency officials will enter impacted areas to assess damage and determine when it is safe for residents to return.
Duke Energy has shut off electrical service in some flooded areas for safety, and natural gas service has also been shut off in impacted areas. Residents should not enter damaged or flooded structures until officials determine conditions are safe.
DAMAGE ASSESSMENT
Wayne County EMA will be working with our state partners at the Indiana Department of Homeland Security to begin damage assessments. Additional information will be provided to residents and business owners regarding how to report flood-related damage. Please follow Wayne County EMA page for updates related to Damage Assessment and Recovery.
LEVEL 3 TRAVEL EMERGENCY – WARNING
Wayne County remains under a Level 3 Travel Emergency (Warning) until 12:00 PM today. County officials will reassess conditions at that time and determine whether the travel status should remain in place or be lowered.
Residents should continue to refrain from travel while the Warning remains in effect.
COUNTY ROAD ASSESSMENTS
Wayne County Highway Superintendent Mike Sharp and Wayne County Highway Department crews will be assessing county roads for flood damage.
Of particular concern are culverts and areas beneath roadways that may have washed out during the flooding. A road may appear safe from the surface while being structurally compromised underneath and could collapse under the weight of a vehicle.
CAMBRIDGE CITY BOIL ORDER
The Boil Water Order remains in effect for Cambridge City. Residents should continue following all instructions from local officials regarding drinking and household water.
RED CROSS SHELTER
Overnight, 15 people stayed at the American Red Cross shelter at the Wayne County Fairgrounds.
STATE AND LOCAL RESPONSE CONTINUES
The Indiana State Police, Indiana Conservation Officers, Indiana Department of Transportation, American Red Cross, and numerous other state, local, and volunteer organizations remain on site and actively supporting ongoing response operations in Wayne County, Cambridge City, Hagerstown, and other impacted communities.
These agencies continue assisting local responders with water rescue operations, road closures, sheltering, public safety, and other immediate needs resulting from the flooding.
🌧️ ADDITIONAL HEAVY RAIN POSSIBLE
Additional rainfall is forecast for Wayne County this afternoon and evening and continuing into Friday morning, with up to 2 inches of additional rain possible.
Even as current floodwaters recede today, additional rainfall could cause water levels to rise again. The ground throughout the affected area is extremely saturated, meaning any additional heavy rainfall could quickly result in renewed flooding, standing water, and additional road hazards.
Residents should remain weather aware throughout today and overnight into Friday and be prepared for conditions to change quickly.
⚠️ KEEP CHILDREN AND PETS OUT OF FLOODWATER
Standing floodwater is not safe for swimming or playing. Floodwater may contain sewage, chemicals, debris, sharp objects, or other contaminants and hazards. Keep children and pets away from all standing or moving floodwater.
Conditions will continue to change throughout the day. Please monitor official information from the Wayne County Emergency Management Agency and local public safety agencies.
