Some Indianapolis residents should not return to their homes until Tuesday — that's the advice from city officials following a severe flood that forced residents along the White River to evacuate over the weekend.
Officials late Sunday afternoon said while waters have begun to recede in several north side neighborhoods, that does not mean the area is safe.
On Saturday, Mayor Joe Hogsett called residents in the neighborhoods of Ravenswood and Rocky Ripple to evacuate along the White River.
Since then water levels have crested across the county, and some of the city's floodgates have been removed.
But Jacob Spence, director of emergency management for Marion County, said that doesn't mean it's safe for people to return.
"We know it's difficult, and our thoughts are with everyone, but we want to make sure that people don't get back into a situation that causes our responders more problems," Spence said.
Spence called for residents to wait for an official notice from the city that it's safe to return home. The Department of Public Works said Sunday afternoon that roads were open into Rocky Ripple, but advised caution.
Spence said the city had evacuated 100 people and 48 pets as of Saturday night, with only one reported injury due to the flood.
Anyone seeking shelter has been directed to Red Cross centers or to the city's Noble Center at Tibbs. Spence said nine individuals had been reported at the Red Cross as of Sunday morning.
The city also announced it created a page on its website to list resources for assistance and donations, and to provide updates on the flooding.
Once people are able to return Spence said the city will begin the work to estimate damage caused by the flood, which will help them coordinate with the Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA.
He said residents should report damages on the city's website, and should also begin reaching out to their insurance companies.
"If you have insurance, you do need to contact your insurance company now, even if you may get assistance down the line, even if there are things, even if you do not have flood insurance, contact your insurance company now," Spence said. "Know what you're allowed to do."
Spence also advised residents to document everything they can using their phones.
Contact Government Reporter Benjamin Thorp at bthorp@wfyi.org
