South Bend, Ind. – Residents along the Michigan-Indiana border should stay weather-aware this evening as strong storms could bring damaging wind, large hail, and a possible tornado south of U.S. Route 6 through 11 p.m. Friday.
According to the National Weather Service Northern Indiana, a Slight Risk (level 2 of 5) for severe weather is in place for most of northern Indiana and parts of northwest Ohio. Southern Michigan counties face a Marginal Risk (level 1). The window for the most dangerous conditions spans from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. EDT.
The highest risk areas include cities like Warsaw, Rochester, and Bluffton, where storms may develop rapidly, bringing winds over 60 mph and hail up to an inch in diameter. While the tornado risk is low, forecasters say one or two brief tornadoes can’t be ruled out, especially in areas south of US-6.
Drivers are urged to avoid travel during the storm window and secure outdoor items that could become airborne. Charge devices and have multiple ways to receive weather alerts in case of power outages.
Additional watches or warnings could be issued as storms evolve. Stay tuned to local media and NOAA weather radio for updates through the evening.
