Fort Wayne, IN – A large portion of northern Indiana remains under a tornado watch until 8 p.m. EDT Sunday, with forecasters warning of possible severe thunderstorms capable of producing tornadoes, damaging winds, and hail.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, Tornado Watch 71 was issued at 2:15 p.m. EDT and covers 28 counties across the region. The alert includes Allen, Elkhart, Lake, St. Joseph, LaPorte, Kosciusko, and DeKalb counties, among others. The watch extends to adjacent areas of southwestern Michigan and offshore Lake Michigan waters near Gary, Burns Harbor, and Michigan City.
Meteorologists warn that conditions are favorable for the development of rotating storms this evening. Residents are urged to stay weather-aware, monitor alerts, and have a safe shelter plan ready. Outdoor activities should be delayed or canceled until the watch expires.
This severe weather threat comes during an unusually active spring system. March tornado watches are not uncommon for the region, but widespread coverage across so many counties is notable. Local emergency management agencies advise using NOAA weather radios and cell phone alerts for rapid updates.
If a warning is issued, take shelter in a basement or interior room away from windows. Stay tuned to local broadcasts and weather apps for updates as storms develop throughout the evening.
