SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- Indiana Gov. Mike Braun declared a Statewide Disaster Emergency Thursday afternoon, following Tuesday's derecho, which caused severe flooding and thousands of Hoosiers to be without power.

Thousands are still without power with restoration times estimated to be at least a week out in some areas.

Braun states this declaration will strengthen Indiana’s response to the widespread damage

It will also mobilize state agencies, unlock emergency resources, and provide additional tools to support local response and recovery efforts, according to Braun.