Floodwaters from severe thunderstorms have left Gary, Indiana reeling after 10 consecutive days without electricity, compounding an already dire situation for residents. The disaster hit a community where nearly one-third of the population lives below the poverty line, making recovery efforts especially difficult for vulnerable families who lack resources for emergency preparedness.

City officials confirmed that full power restoration across Gary won't be completed until next week, leaving thousands of residents without basic services including refrigeration, heating, and communication access. Emergency shelters remain operational as temperatures drop, with local organizations working to distribute supplies and coordinate relief efforts.

The flooding caused extensive damage to homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure throughout the city. Many residents found themselves trapped in their homes as floodwaters rose, with emergency responders conducting numerous water rescues over the past week.

State and federal aid officials are assessing damage reports to determine eligibility for disaster assistance programs. Local leaders emphasize that the combination of economic disadvantage and natural disaster has created unprecedented challenges requiring coordinated response efforts from multiple agencies.