Dayton Remembers Historic 1913 Flood 110 Years Later

Photo byUniversity of Dayton

DAYTON, OH - In March 1913, Ohio was struck by one of the most catastrophic natural disasters in its history—the Great Dayton Flood.

According to Dayton History, a series of severe storms swept through the Midwest, dumping record amounts of rain across the region. Over three days, more than nine inches of rain fell on already saturated ground, causing the Great Miami River and its tributaries to swell rapidly.

Dayton, located at the confluence of four rivers, was particularly vulnerable. On March 25, 1913, the levees protecting the city failed, and within hours, downtown Dayton was under up to 20 feet of water, according to the University of Dayton.

The floodwaters spread across 14 square miles, trapping residents and destroying homes, businesses, and infrastructure.

The flood claimed over 360 lives and left more than 65,000 people homeless. The economic damage was staggering, with estimates of losses reaching $100 million (equivalent to over $2 billion today), according to Dayton History.

The disaster led to the creation of the Miami Conservancy District, one of the first major flood control projects in the United States, which still protects the region from similar events today.

The Great Dayton Flood remains a poignant reminder of the power of nature and the resilience of Ohio's communities.