South Bend, Indiana – Northern Indiana could see two rounds of severe thunderstorms over the next 24 hours, with the greatest overall concern shifting to Monday afternoon and evening as storms capable of damaging winds move across the region.
According to the National Weather Service in Northern Indiana and the NOAA Storm Prediction Center, a Slight Risk (Level 2 of 5) is in place for parts of the region both tonight and Monday. The first opportunity for severe weather arrives between 11 p.m. tonight and 7 a.m. Monday, when isolated thunderstorms could produce damaging wind gusts and large hail. Forecasters say confidence in severe weather developing overnight remains relatively low.
A second, more concerning round is expected between 2 p.m. Monday and 2 a.m. Tuesday, with confidence increasing that severe storms will develop somewhere across northern Indiana. Damaging straight-line winds are expected to be the primary hazard, although a brief tornado or two cannot be ruled out if storms become more organized.
Communities including South Bend, Elkhart, Fort Wayne, Warsaw, Plymouth, Marion and surrounding areas should closely monitor forecast updates. Travel on Interstates 80/90, 69 and 94 could become hazardous during stronger storms because of sudden wind gusts, torrential rainfall and reduced visibility.
Residents should secure outdoor items, charge electronic devices and ensure they have multiple ways to receive weather warnings, particularly overnight when storms are more difficult to recognize. Outdoor activities Monday afternoon and evening may need to be adjusted if severe thunderstorm warnings are issued.
The National Weather Service notes that confidence is higher for Monday’s severe weather than tonight’s, but the exact timing and track of individual storms remain uncertain. Additional watches and warnings may be issued as conditions become clearer.
