Fort Wayne, IN – A dangerous round of severe thunderstorms is expected to sweep across northern Indiana Thursday evening, with the potential for damaging winds, large hail, and isolated tornadoes before midnight.
According to the National Weather Service in Northern Indiana, storms will develop and intensify between 5 p.m. and midnight, with the highest risk centered along and south of U.S. 30, including Fort Wayne, Warsaw, Kokomo, and Marion. A level 3 out of 5 risk highlights the potential for numerous severe storms capable of producing widespread impacts.
Wind gusts could exceed 60 mph, strong enough to down trees and power lines, while hail and brief tornadoes remain possible within stronger cells. Heavy rainfall may also lead to localized flooding, especially in low-lying or poor drainage areas.
Storms will move from northwest to southeast, affecting areas near South Bend and Elkhart earlier in the evening before pushing toward Fort Wayne and into Ohio later tonight. Travel conditions may deteriorate quickly on major routes including I-69 and U.S. 24.
Residents should charge devices, secure outdoor items, and be ready to take shelter if warnings are issued. Avoid unnecessary travel during peak storm hours.
Storms will taper off overnight, followed by sharply colder air Friday. Additional alerts may be issued as conditions evolve.
