Indianapolis, Indiana – Severe storms capable of producing tornadoes could develop rapidly across southern and central Indiana this afternoon, with a Tornado Watch in effect until 9 p.m. EST.
According to the Storm Prediction Center in Norman, Oklahoma, Tornado Watch 10 includes 33 Indiana counties stretching from Vanderburgh and Posey counties along the Ohio River east through Clark and Floyd counties, and north toward Monroe, Bartholomew and Decatur counties. The watch covers major cities including Evansville, Bloomington, Columbus, Jeffersonville and New Albany.
Counties along the Ohio River such as Perry, Spencer and Warrick face the potential for rotating storms, while inland areas including Greene, Lawrence and Jackson counties could see damaging wind gusts over 60 mph and large hail. The threat is expected to increase during the late afternoon and continue into the evening hours.
Drivers heading home during the evening commute should stay alert for rapidly changing conditions. Residents are urged to review tornado safety plans now, keep phones charged and identify a safe shelter location on the lowest floor of a sturdy building.
Warnings could be issued with little notice if storms begin rotating. The Tornado Watch remains in effect until 9 p.m. EST.
