Severe Storms Hit Michiana, Leading to Power Outages and Damage

Severe storms swept through Michiana on Wednesday afternoon, unleashing strong winds, heavy rain, and numerous reports of fallen trees across the region.

In response, the National Weather Service issued a Tornado Watch for the entire area, effective until 8:00 p.m. that evening. Reports of storm damage were widespread, leaving thousands in Indiana and Michigan without power. Additionally, several locales were put under a Thunderstorm Warning.

The WSBT 22 Storm Alert Weather Team tracked multiple significant storm lines throughout the day. While storms weren’t continuous everywhere during those hours, the potential for powerful storms remained into the evening. We are at a level 3 out of 5 risk, indicating numerous severe storms are probable, with a few possibly reaching intense levels. The primary storm threats we focus on are straight-line damaging winds, hail, flooding rains, and tornadoes. Although all four hazards are possible, damaging winds and heavy rain pose the greatest and most probable threats.

Once the storms pass, expect a temporary shift to cooler, less humid air. However, highs on Thursday will still reach around 80 degrees, marking the coolest day in the forecast. Attention will soon shift to the approaching high heat and humidity slated for the weekend and into next week. Temperatures are expected to rise into the lower 90s, with dew points in the 70s, making it feel very muggy, and heat indices could exceed 100 degrees through the following week.