Indianapolis, Indiana – Drivers and residents across central Indiana have a narrow window to prepare as severe thunderstorms are expected to develop after 7 p.m., bringing large hail, damaging winds, and a low-end tornado threat through early Friday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Indianapolis, storms will form along a cold front this evening and intensify between 7 p.m. and 1 a.m. Friday. A Level 3 out of 5 severe risk covers much of central Indiana, including Indianapolis, Kokomo, Muncie, and Lafayette, where the strongest storms are most likely.
Primary hazards include hail up to 1 to 2 inches in diameter and wind gusts strong enough to down tree limbs and power lines. Localized flooding is also possible, especially in low-lying or poor drainage areas. A few tornadoes cannot be ruled out, particularly in stronger storm cells.
Major travel routes including I-65, I-69, and I-70 could see rapidly changing conditions with reduced visibility and debris. Residents are urged to secure outdoor items, charge devices, and have multiple ways to receive warnings overnight.
Storms are expected to weaken toward early Friday morning, but additional alerts may be issued as conditions evolve overnight.
