Indianapolis, IN – Buckle up, Indiana! Starting Thursday night and lasting through the weekend, we’re expecting stormy weather to roll through, with the heaviest impacts in the northern part of the state. If you’ve got plans, especially in the northern regions, it’s time to pay attention to what’s coming your way. So, what’s in store for you, and how can you stay safe as the storms move in?
What You Can Expect:
-
Timing: The storm activity will begin ramping up on Thursday night. By Friday, things will be in full swing, especially across the northern half of Indiana. Storms will continue into Saturday and Sunday, though they’ll gradually move south. The best way to describe it? Unpredictable—so stay weather-aware, as conditions could change quickly.
-
Rain, Rain, and More Rain: We’re looking at 1-2 inches of rain over the next few days. While it’s not going to be constant downpours, expect pockets of heavy rain that could lead to flash flooding in certain areas. Pay attention to those low-lying spots or places near creeks, streams, or rivers. Standing water will be a real risk with all this rain.
-
Severe Weather Threats: While this isn’t shaping up to be a massive storm, strong winds, hail, and even a tornado or two can’t be ruled out. Wind gusts could reach 50-60 mph, and hail could be big enough to cause damage to cars or roofs. So, it’s not the time to ignore a weather alert!
What Are the Biggest Concerns?
-
Flooding: Flash floods are always a concern with heavy rain, and this system could bring water levels up quickly. If you live near a creek, stream, or low-lying area, keep an eye on water levels and avoid driving through flooded streets. It’s easy to get caught in a flash flood, so don’t take any chances. Turn around, don’t drown!
-
Wind and Hail: Those gusty winds are definitely something to watch out for. 50 to 60 mph winds are strong enough to knock over trees, trash cans, and cause damage to unsecured outdoor furniture. Also, hail could pop up during these storms, so if you’ve got outdoor plans, it might be a good idea to head indoors. It’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to hailstorms!
-
Tornado Threat: We’re not expecting a widespread tornado outbreak, but the possibility of a spin-up tornado exists, especially in northern Indiana. These types of tornadoes can be short-lived but still powerful, so if a tornado warning goes out, make sure you know where to shelter, and don’t waste any time getting to a safe spot.
How to Stay Safe:
-
Know Your Safe Spot: If a tornado warning gets issued in your area, it’s important to know where to go. The safest places are typically basements, storm cellars, or interior rooms with no windows, located on the lowest level of your home. If you don’t have a basement, an interior closet or bathroom will provide the best protection.
-
Flash Flooding Is No Joke: Flash floods can happen fast. Keep an eye on local news or your weather apps for warnings, and if you see water rising around you, get to higher ground immediately. Don’t drive through flooded streets—just a few inches of water can be enough to sweep your car off the road.
-
Protect Your Property: You don’t want to deal with hail damage if you can avoid it, so try moving outdoor furniture or vehicles into a garage or covered area before the storms hit. If it’s too late, at least move things like trash cans and lightweight objects inside to avoid them being tossed around by strong winds.
-
Stay Informed: Keep your weather alerts turned on and follow trusted sources for updates. Storms can pop up quickly, and being aware of what’s coming gives you time to take action.
What Happens After the Storm?
Once the storm system moves out, clear skies and calm weather are expected by Sunday. So, once the weekend storms have passed, you’ll get a break from the rain and wind, and things will dry out. It won’t be long before you can enjoy some sunshine again—so hang in there!
Stay Ready, Stay Safe
It’s always good to be prepared, and this storm system is a reminder that Indiana weather can change quickly. While we’re not facing an extreme situation, the potential for strong winds, hail, and flash flooding make this a weather event worth watching. Keep your plans flexible, take a few simple precautions, and stay safe out there!
