Fort Wayne, Indiana – A rare burst of late-season severe weather pushed through northern Indiana this past weekend, prompting a Tornado Warning for parts of White and Pulaski counties and marking a historic first for the region in December.
According to the National Weather Service office in Northern Indiana, the warning was issued Sunday as anomalously warm air combined with an active storm system, creating conditions favorable for rotation. Records dating back to 1986 show this was the first December Tornado Warning ever issued by the office, underscoring how unusual the setup was for this time of year.
Northern Indiana typically sees its highest severe weather risk in spring and summer, with only occasional secondary activity in the fall. Tornado warnings after August have been rare, and December warnings had never occurred locally until now. While no widespread damage was reported, the event highlighted how quickly conditions can change, even outside the traditional severe season.
Emergency managers remind residents that severe weather can happen at any time of year. Having multiple ways to receive warnings, including weather radios and mobile alerts, remains critical, especially overnight or during the colder months when storms are less expected.
The system has since moved out of the region, and no additional severe weather is expected in the near term. Forecasters continue to review the event, noting it as a reminder that late-year severe weather, while rare, is still possible under the right conditions.
