Indianapolis, IN – Large portions of Indiana are under a Tornado Watch this afternoon and evening as strong storms move across the region, prompting heightened concern for severe weather impacts through 9 p.m. Sunday.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, Tornado Watch No. 643 was issued at 3:45 p.m. EST and includes more than 40 counties across central, southern, and western Indiana. Meteorologists say atmospheric conditions are favorable for the development of tornadoes, damaging straight-line winds, and large hail.
Counties under the watch include Marion, Hamilton, Hendricks, Boone, Johnson, Monroe, Tippecanoe, Vigo, Knox, Daviess, Dubois, Gibson, Vanderburgh, Warrick, Posey, and Spencer, among others. The watch impacts major population centers including Indianapolis, Lafayette, Terre Haute, Bloomington, and the Evansville metro area, as well as surrounding rural communities.
Forecasters warn storms may intensify quickly during the late afternoon and early evening hours, particularly along advancing storm lines. Residents are encouraged to monitor weather alerts closely, keep mobile devices charged, and have multiple ways to receive warnings.
A tornado watch means conditions are favorable for tornado development, but tornadoes have not yet been confirmed. If a tornado warning is issued, residents should seek shelter immediately in a basement or interior room on the lowest level of a sturdy building, away from windows.
Drivers should be prepared for rapidly changing road conditions, including heavy rain, gusty winds, and reduced visibility during storms.
