Indianapolis, Ind. – After weeks of dry weather, rain is set to return to Indiana beginning Wednesday evening, bringing the first widespread showers and thunderstorms the state has seen in some time. Cooler air will follow the front, dropping temperatures sharply by Thursday.
According to the National Weather Service in Indianapolis, storms are expected to develop in Illinois Wednesday afternoon before pushing southeast into Indiana. The first round of rain is forecast to arrive west of Lafayette around 5 p.m. and will spread across the region through the night, exiting into Ohio by early Thursday morning.
Rainfall amounts between 0.25 and 0.5 inches are likely across southern and central Indiana, while northern counties could see 0.5 to 1 inch, with locally higher totals. Brief heavy downpours and lightning are possible, which may create slick roads during the Wednesday evening commute.
Drivers in Indianapolis, Bloomington, and Terre Haute should use caution on wet pavement, while rural areas could see ponding in low-lying spots. The storm system is expected to clear by Thursday, leaving behind cooler, less humid air to close out the week.
Additional advisories could be issued if storm intensity increases. Residents should monitor updates and prepare for travel delays Wednesday night.
Five Day Forecast for Indianapolis, Ind.
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny, highs in the upper 80s.
- Wednesday: Showers and thunderstorms developing by evening, highs near 85.
- Thursday: Clearing skies, cooler with highs in the mid-70s.
- Friday: Sunny, comfortable, highs in the mid-70s.
- Saturday: Mostly sunny, highs in the upper 70s.
