South Bend, Ind. – Northern Indiana is waking up to a taste of fall, but not without a few weather hazards over Lake Michigan. Early Tuesday, waves up to 6 feet and gusty northwest winds are fueling strong rip currents and the potential for waterspouts over the southern end of the lake.
According to the National Weather Service in Northern Indiana, conditions are most favorable for waterspouts through this morning and early afternoon. Mariners are advised to steer 90 degrees away from any waterspout’s path, while beachgoers should be ready to seek shelter if one nears shore. Dangerous currents and structural hazards are also a concern, with high swim risks expected along Indiana and southwest Michigan beaches.
Inland, the bigger story is the crisp autumn-like air settling across the region. Highs today will struggle to reach 70 degrees, with Fort Wayne, South Bend, and Goshen likely topping out in the upper 60s. By Tuesday and Wednesday mornings, temperatures could dip into the mid-40s away from the lake, marking one of the coolest starts this late summer season.
Residents are urged to dress in layers and limit lakefront activity until conditions improve. More advisories could be issued if waterspout activity increases through midday.
Five Day Forecast for South Bend, IN
- Tuesday: Morning low 47°, high 67°, chance of lake effect showers
- Wednesday: Low 45°, high 68°, mostly sunny
- Thursday: Low 50°, high 72°, partly cloudy
- Friday: Low 52°, high 74°, sunny
- Saturday: Low 55°, high 76°, dry and warmer
