Scattered thunderstorms are expected to move across northern Indiana on Wednesday, bringing a low but notable risk of damaging wind gusts and hail. The National Weather Service in Northern Indiana has issued a marginal risk for severe storms, which will impact areas from Gary to Fort Wayne, including South Bend, La Porte, and Warsaw.
Timing and Location of the Storms
The storms will begin to develop slowly from the west after daybreak and are expected to intensify in the afternoon and evening, between 1 p.m. and 10 p.m. While widespread severe weather is unlikely, isolated thunderstorms may produce wind gusts up to 30 mph and hail as large as quarter-sized.
Areas Most at Risk
The storms are forecast to impact northern Indiana, especially areas near open farmland and major roadways like US-31 and I-69, where wind gusts may cause localized damage. Lakeside communities like Michigan City and Benton Harbor will likely stay cooler, with highs in the upper 60s to low 70s due to lake breezes. Inland areas, however, will see higher temperatures, potentially reaching the mid-80s.
Potential Storm Impacts
- Wind Gusts: Isolated cells could bring wind gusts up to 30 mph, particularly in open areas.
- Hail: There is a risk of quarter-sized hail in some areas.
- Heavy Downpours: Slow-moving storms could cause brief but heavy downpours, potentially leading to minor urban flooding in some locations.
- Localized Damage: Wind gusts could damage unsecured outdoor items, especially in areas with little shelter.
What You Should Do
- Secure Outdoor Items: Ensure that outdoor furniture, decorations, and other items are secured to prevent wind damage.
- Charge Devices: Keep your phone and other devices charged in case of power outages.
- Monitor Local Alerts: Stay updated by monitoring local weather alerts throughout the day, especially if you live in areas at risk of severe weather.
- Prepare for Flooding: If you live in urban areas, be prepared for the possibility of minor flooding in case of heavy downpours.
Evening Outlook
The storms will persist into the evening, and warnings may be issued if storms intensify. Keep an eye on the latest updates, as the weather could change rapidly.
