Fort Wayne, Indiana – Residents across northern Indiana and parts of Lower Michigan should brace for powerful storms Thursday evening, with the National Weather Service warning of damaging winds over 60 mph and large hail potentially exceeding 2 inches in diameter.
According to the National Weather Service Northern Indiana office, storms are expected to develop between 7 p.m. and 2 a.m. EDT, especially in areas along and north of U.S. Route 30. The threat zone includes cities such as South Bend, Warsaw, and La Porte in Indiana, and extends into Benton Harbor and Kalamazoo, Michigan. An Enhanced Risk (level 3 of 5) for severe weather is in place across this region.
Storms could evolve into supercells capable of producing all severe hazards, including isolated tornadoes. While forecasters note low to medium confidence in coverage, any storms that form will be intense. Preparations should include charging mobile devices, securing outdoor items, and avoiding travel during the warning window.
The severe threat may extend into northwest Ohio, including the Toledo area, with a Slight Risk (level 2 of 5) identified. Additional thunderstorms are possible late Friday, though confidence in that second wave remains lower.
Warnings remain in effect through early Friday morning, with updates likely as conditions evolve.
