Indianapolis, Indiana – Severe thunderstorms could rapidly intensify across eight states Thursday afternoon, threatening major travel corridors with 70 to 80 mph winds, large hail over 2 inches, and isolated tornadoes by the evening commute.
According to the NOAA Storm Prediction Center, an enhanced risk (level 3 of 5) spans a broad corridor from eastern Missouri through Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio, extending into parts of southern Michigan, northern Kentucky, western Pennsylvania, and northwest West Virginia. Storms are expected to develop between 2 p.m. and 8 p.m., with peak intensity during late afternoon and early evening.
Cities in the highest impact zone include St. Louis, Springfield (IL), Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, Columbus, and Akron, where supercell storms may produce very large hail and damaging wind gusts capable of downing trees and power lines. Major interstates including I-70, I-65, I-75, and I-71 could see sudden closures or dangerous driving conditions due to debris, crosswinds, and reduced visibility.
Farther north into Michigan and east toward Pittsburgh, storms may be less intense but still capable of strong winds and heavy rain.
Residents across all eight states should secure outdoor items, charge devices, and be ready to seek shelter quickly if warnings are issued. Avoid unnecessary travel during peak storm hours.
The threat will shift east later tonight, but additional watches and warnings are likely as storms develop and track across the region.
