Crown Point, Indiana – Severe thunderstorms are sweeping through Northwest Indiana this afternoon, threatening cities like Crown Point, Gary, and Valparaiso with wind gusts up to 60 mph and possible penny-sized hail until 5:15 p.m. Wednesday. Residents are urged to immediately end outdoor activities and seek sturdy shelter as the storm advances.
According to the National Weather Service, a Severe Thunderstorm Warning is in effect for Lake and Porter counties, impacting over 627,000 people, 188 schools, and 15 hospitals across the region. The warning area stretches from Cedar Lake and Dyer in the south to East Chicago, Hammond, and Beverly Shores near the Lake Michigan shoreline.
Hazardous conditions could lead to downed trees and power lines, making travel dangerous on major roads including I-65, U.S. 30, and the Borman Expressway (I-80/94). Local officials advise residents in Griffith, Merrillville, Hobart, and Portage to stay indoors, secure loose objects, and keep cell phones charged in case of outages.
This storm system marks one of the most significant severe weather threats to hit Northwest Indiana this July. Similar storms earlier this summer left thousands without power and caused widespread tree damage.
The Severe Thunderstorm Warning remains in effect until 5:15 p.m., with more watches possible as conditions evolve. Stay tuned to local updates and do not return outside until officials declare the area safe.
