Fort Wayne, Ind. – A large portion of northern Indiana is now under a Severe Thunderstorm Watch, signaling the potential for dangerous storms to develop and intensify through the afternoon hours.
According to the NOAA Storm Prediction Center, Severe Thunderstorm Watch 78 remains in effect until 5 p.m. CDT, covering more than 30 counties across northern Indiana. This includes major population centers such as Fort Wayne, South Bend, Elkhart, Gary, and Lafayette, along with surrounding communities.
The watch means conditions are favorable for severe thunderstorms capable of producing damaging wind gusts up to 60 mph and large hail. Storms may develop quickly and organize into clusters, increasing the risk for widespread impacts across the region.
Counties included stretch from Lake and Porter counties along Lake Michigan through Allen, DeKalb, and Steuben counties in the northeast. Key travel corridors such as I-80/90, I-69, and U.S. 30 could be impacted by sudden downpours, strong winds, and reduced visibility as storms develop.
Residents should prepare now by securing outdoor items, charging devices, and ensuring multiple ways to receive warnings. While not every location will see severe weather, any storm that forms could intensify rapidly.
The greatest threat window will continue through the afternoon hours, with storms expected to weaken or move out by early evening. Additional watches or warnings may be issued as conditions evolve.
