Gary, Indiana – Strong thunderstorms could disrupt travel across northwest Indiana Tuesday evening as Lake and Porter counties remain under a Severe Thunderstorm Watch until midnight.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, Severe Thunderstorm Watch 35 includes both Lake and Porter counties through the late evening hours. The watch covers major communities such as Gary, Hammond, East Chicago, Merrillville and Valparaiso.
Storms developing near the Illinois border may intensify as they move east along the Lake Michigan shoreline. Drivers along Interstate 90, Interstate 94 and the Indiana Toll Road could encounter sudden downpours, frequent lightning and wind gusts strong enough to impact high-profile vehicles.
Emergency managers across northwest Indiana urge residents to secure outdoor furniture, keep mobile devices charged and monitor alerts through the evening. Communities near the lakeshore, including Crown Point and Portage, should be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions.
The watch remains active until 12 a.m. Wednesday, and additional warnings could be issued if stronger storm cells form across Lake and Porter counties tonight. Residents should remain weather aware and move indoors quickly if a warning is issued.
