Indiana is under an Enhanced Risk of severe storms

INDIANA – A severe weather threat covers all of Indiana. There is now an Enhanced Risk of storms across all of Central Indiana.

According to Sam Lashley, of the National Weather Service, we are currently on a Level 3 out of 5 Levels.

“This is a very rear, unique setup,” he added. “With this hitting during overnight hours it makes serious in nature people won’t have access to warnings. We have the potential of dangerous winds in excess of 70 to 80 miles per hour and tornados that could be strong and long-lived. The strongest storms will be from I-70 south, but those north of I-70 should not let their guard down. These storms will be moving fast between 50 to 60 miles per hour increasing the danger. We will attempt to get warnings out fast but with this fast motion these storms will be upon people quickly.”

Enhanced Risk means more widespread and persistent severe storms are possible. Isolated severe storms are likely after 8 p.m.

Storms will become more widespread in the early overnight hours beginning around 10 p.m. The most intense storms are likely between the hours of midnight until 4 a.m.

This is an unusual situation for December.

Damaging wind and tornadoes are possible ahead of a strong cold front. Wind gusts of 70 miles per hour and more are possible. Make sure to have your cell phones charged before the storms arrive.

Know the difference between a watch and a warning:

Much colder air will sweep back into Central Indiana early Saturday.

Lawrence County Emergency Management provides the following weather safety and preparedness tips to keep residents safe:

  • Pay attention to weather reports on local radio and televison, warnings of thunderstorms, and alerts that conditions could lead to a tornado. Be ready to change plans, if necessary.
  • Stay away from downed power lines and trees and report them immediately. Report fallen power lines and power outages.
  • Secure any outside furniture or decorations to minimize any property damage from high winds.
  • If a tornado warning is issued, find shelter immediately. Stay away from windows, doors, and outside walls. If driving, do not stop under an overpass or bridge. A low, flat location is safer.
  • When thunder roars, go indoors. A sturdy building is the safest place to be during a thunderstorm.
  • If streets become impassable with dangerous high water or fallen tree debris, do not pass through it. Turn around and don’t drown.