Fort Wayne, IN – A line of severe thunderstorms is moving through Illinois and is expected to reach northern Indiana around 2 a.m. EDT, bringing damaging winds and the potential for isolated tornadoes. The National Weather Service warns that the storms will continue through 5 a.m., primarily affecting areas west of I-69.
According to the National Weather Service, wind gusts exceeding 60 mph are the primary threat, with the possibility of isolated tornadoes and frequent lightning. While the storms are expected to weaken as they move eastward, they may still cause damage and power outages.
Residents are advised to secure loose outdoor items, stay indoors, and monitor weather alerts. Power outages could last for an extended period, and officials urge residents to use flashlights instead of candles to prevent fire hazards. Portable generators should be used outdoors, at least 20 feet away from windows and doors, to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Food safety is also a concern, as refrigerated items may spoil within four hours of an outage.
The storm system is forecast to weaken by morning, but travelers and residents should remain cautious through the early hours of Saturday. Stay tuned to local weather updates for the latest information on storm developments and safety recommendations.
