Rensselaer, Indiana — A Tornado Watch has been issued for parts of northwest Indiana Tuesday afternoon as atmospheric conditions become increasingly favorable for dangerous severe thunderstorms.
The watch remains in effect until 11 p.m. CDT and includes Benton, Jasper, and Newton counties, covering communities such as Rensselaer, Kentland, Fowler, and surrounding rural areas.
A tornado watch means that weather conditions are capable of producing tornadoes, along with other forms of severe weather such as large hail and damaging wind gusts. Residents across northwest Indiana are urged to stay alert throughout the evening as storms begin to develop across the region.
Forecasters say thunderstorms may intensify through the late afternoon and evening hours, potentially becoming supercells capable of producing rotating storms and isolated tornadoes.
Travelers along major roadways including Interstate 65, U.S. Highway 41, U.S. Highway 24, and U.S. Highway 52 could encounter rapidly changing weather conditions if storms track across the area.
Large hail and strong wind gusts are also possible with the strongest storms, which could lead to downed tree limbs and localized power outages.
Emergency officials recommend residents closely monitor weather alerts through mobile devices, local media, or NOAA Weather Radio as the situation evolves.
If a tornado warning is issued, people should seek shelter immediately in a sturdy building, moving to the lowest floor and staying away from windows. Mobile homes and vehicles are not safe during tornado warnings and should be evacuated for a more secure structure when possible.
Forecasters will continue monitoring storm development closely through the evening hours.
