Flood Preparedness

Stay Ready. Stay Safe. Stay Shelbyville Strong.

Flooding can occur quickly, especially with rising rivers like the Big Blue and Little Blue. This page provides real-time information and guidance to help residents stay informed and prepared.

Current Conditions

Shelbyville is actively monitoring two river gauges maintained by the National Weather Service (NOAA):

• Big Blue River Gauge (River Road, west of City Cemetery)
  View Live Data and Forecasts

• Little Blue River Gauge (near the former National Guard building)
  View Live Data and Forecasts

Both rivers are currently at an "Action" stage. This means water levels are rising and may lead to flooding if conditions continue.

Forecasted Timeline of Concern

These projected flood stages are based on current models and are subject to change. For the most reliable, up-to-date information, use the National Water Model Guidance tab on the NOAA river forecast pages linked above.

At approximately 18 feet, Shelbyville is likely to experience major flooding.

What Happens at Each River Height?

Understanding these benchmarks can help you prepare:

• 11 ft – Lowland areas including Sunset Park and Bear Chase Golf Course begin to flood.

• 13 ft – Flooding likely in fields near CR 425W and areas near the golf course.

• 14 ft – Floodwaters begin reaching homes and businesses.

• 15 ft – Trucking firm on Boggstown Road may be impacted.

• 16.3 ft – Yards flood near Big Blue, similar to the March 6, 2011 event.

• 17 ft+ – Homes near CR 100N and Boggstown Road begin flooding, comparable to April 21, 2011.

• 18 ft – Big Blue River will enter Major Flood Stage, and significant flooding is expected

What Residents Should Do Now

1. Stay Informed

Monitor local river data and forecasts frequently:

• Big Blue River Gauge

• Little Blue River Gauge

• Sugar Creek (central) near Boggstown Gauge

Follow the Shelby County Emergency Management Agency- Indiana on Facebook and check the Shelby County Emergency Management website for official updates.

2. Know Your Risk

If you live near the Big Blue River—particularly near Boggstown Road, CR 100N, Sunset Park, or Bear Chase Golf Course—you are in a high-risk flood zone. Take precautions early.

3. Prepare a Go-Bag

Have essentials ready in case you need to evacuate:

• Medications, documents, identification

• Drinking water, nonperishable food, clothing

• Flashlight, phone charger, basic toiletries

Refer to this Flood Preparation Checklist from Ready.gov.

4. Identify Your Emergency Shelter & Resources

Free Sandbags 

• Shelby County Emergency Management Office ( 1310 N Michigan Road, IN 46176)
  • Monday-Friday | 8:00 am-5:00 pm
• City of Shelbyville Street Department (605 Hale Road, Shelbyville, IN 46176) 
  • Saturday, April 5, 2025 | 9:00 am-12:00 pm

In the event of evacuation, residents may go to:

Shelby County Fairgrounds
500 Frank Street, Shelbyville IN 46176
Shelter opens at 6:30 PM on Friday, April 4.

5. Check on Others

Please check in with neighbors—particularly seniors or individuals with limited mobility. Be prepared to assist with transportation or communication if needed. Keep pets safe and with you at all times.

Flood Safety Reminders

• Never drive through floodwaters. A few inches can sweep a vehicle off the road.

• Keep your phone charged and alert settings turned on for emergency notifications.

• Move valuables and electronics to higher ground or upper floors if flooding is likely.

• Avoid walking or playing in floodwaters, which may contain dangerous debris or downed power lines.

Additional Resources

• Ready.gov: Flood Planning and Safety

• American Red Cross: Flood Safety Information

Final Note

Flood projections can shift with changing conditions. Shelby County Emergency Management Agency continues to monitor river levels and coordinate with emergency response partners. Updates will be shared promptly on official city channels.

Stay safe, stay aware, and take precautions to protect your home and family.