Indianapolis officials urge evacuation near White River

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — City officials urged everyone in an area near the White River to evacuate by 9:30 Friday night to avoid being trapped by floodwaters.

The city said in response to the expected cresting of the White River Saturday, it will close the gates within the flood wall in the area bounded by North College Avenue to the west, East 67th Street to the south, Westfield Boulevard to the east and the White River to the north.

“Residents that reside within this area, which include nine homes and the Edgewater Apartments and businesses, which includes the Indianapolis Arts Center, are highly recommended to leave and be out of the area by 9:30 p.m. for gate closure,” the announcement said.

After the gates close, residents will not have access to their homes, and emergency crews will not be able to get to the area.

Officials announced the flood risk has activated the Marion County Emergency Operations Center which will remain active until the flood risk has subsided.

Those who need a safe shelter for the evening can go to the Washington Township Adult Center at 8401 Westfield Blvd. Officials noted five roads that were seeing impacts from rising waters Friday night:

• 77th Street (off Westfield Boulevard).
• 74th and Indianola Avenue.
• River Road between Knickerbocker Place and River Crossing Parkway.
• River Road between Hyde Park and Brandt Road.
• 71st and Lee Road (in Lawrence)

Marion County Emergency Management and Indianapolis Department of Public Works said they will provide updates on their social media pages.

The White River is expected to crest at 20 feet by 8 a.m. Saturday.

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