Carmel floods create urgent need for remediation services and financial aid in Hamilton County

Weeks after floodwaters from Mitchner Ditch inundated neighborhoods in east Carmel, many residents remain in temporary living arrangements while remediation and rebuilding begin. Some homeowners have returned to gutted houses; others are staying with relatives, in rentals or in campers. Matthew Weber says about six feet of water entered his Northwood Hills home, which has been stripped to the studs and flooring; he is renting elsewhere and estimates restoration could take at least a year.

Residents describe a heavy administrative and financial load as they pursue aid and repairs. Amal Anthony reported a gutted living room, damaged crawlspace and ductwork and loss of air conditioning since the Aug. 15 flood, and said applying for state and FEMA assistance involved submitting hundreds of documents. Residents with flood insurance said many costs must be paid up front and some losses aren’t covered, and they identified direct monetary aid as the most urgent need. Local groups including the Hamilton County Community Foundation and the Good Samaritan Network are collecting donations to distribute to victims.

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