Heavy rain and flash flooding caused numerous problems Monday evening across Daviess County and Martin County, leading to flooded roads, stranded motorists, wastewater issues and blocked roadways.
According to dispatch reports, a motorist became stranded near 1200 East and 150 North near Loogootee after a vehicle broke down close to high water. The driver told authorities water was not entering the vehicle and later requested only a wrecker service. Additional reports came in of flooded roadways on 100 West near 225 North and on 650 East near 800 North, where motorists said water covering the roadway created dangerous driving conditions and nearly caused vehicles to hydroplane.
In Washington, emergency crews responded to several high-water incidents as heavy rainfall caused flooding throughout the city. Officials received complaints of high water near Daviess Community Hospital, Northwest 21st and Walnut streets, Highland Avenue and Southeast 11th Street, and near Glenwood Drive on 100 North. Portions of 100 North were later blocked due to flooding.
First responders were also called to West Main Street and Northwest 2nd Street after a woman reported floodwater had risen into her vehicle up to the seats. The Washington City Fire Department and emergency personnel safely assisted all occupants from the vehicle, and three people were later transported from the scene to the Washington Police Department for assistance. Multiple streets around the city were temporarily blocked due to rising water levels, including areas near Northwest 6th Street, Van Trees Street, Southwest 7th Street and Walnut Street. Two vehicles were later towed from flooded areas.
Residents also reported wastewater problems as stormwater overwhelmed parts of the system. One caller reported sewage bubbling into a basement on Northeast 1st Street, while others reported flashing alarms at lift stations on Troy Road and Cottonwood Court. City wastewater crews responded to multiple locations throughout the evening, and high water warning signs were placed in affected areas.
Severe weather also caused a large tree to fall across North State Road 57 near Washington. Dispatch reports indicate the tree fell on a blind curve near the 3700 block of the highway, completely blocking the southbound lane and partially blocking the northbound lane. Multiple motorists reported the hazard, and the Indiana Department of Transportation responded with additional crews to clear the roadway. Traffic in the area was impacted until the tree could be removed.
