SOUTHERN INDIANA — Severe weather can move into Southern Indiana quickly, and residents are being reminded to have a plan before the next round of storms arrives.
Forecasters are watching for thunderstorms, strong winds, heavy rain and the possibility of isolated tornadoes in the region. Some storms may also bring hail and dangerous lightning. Heavy rain could cause flooding, especially in areas that receive several rounds of storms. The National Weather Service has noted that multiple rounds of strong to severe storms have been possible across Southern Indiana this summer.
For residents, the message is simple: Don’t wait until the storm is overhead to decide what to do.
Have a Safe Place Ready
Every household should know where to go if a tornado warning is issued.
The safest place is a basement or storm shelter. If neither is available, move to a small room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building, away from windows. A bathroom, closet or interior hallway can provide better protection than a room with windows.
Keep blankets, pillows or other items nearby that can be used to protect your head from flying debris.
If you live in a mobile home, have a plan to get to a nearby sturdy building before severe weather arrives.
Keep Your Phone Nearby
Make sure your cellphone is charged and that emergency alerts are turned on.
A Tornado Watch means conditions are right for tornadoes to develop. It is time to pay close attention to the weather and be ready to take shelter.
A Tornado Warning means a tornado has been spotted or indicated by radar. Take shelter immediately.
Don’t wait until you see a tornado or hear a siren. Storms can become dangerous very quickly.
Indiana Has Already Seen a Record Number of Tornadoes
There is good reason for Hoosiers to take tornado warnings seriously this year.
Indiana has already broken its previous record for the most tornadoes in a year. The National Weather Service reported 77 tornadoes through June 2026, surpassing the previous record of 72 set in 2011. June alone produced 58 tornadoes, making it the most active tornado month on record in Indiana.
Southern Indiana has also experienced several significant severe-weather events this year, including tornadoes and damaging straight-line winds. The National Weather Service’s Louisville office has documented multiple tornado events across southern Indiana during 2026.
The record-setting year does not mean a tornado will occur every time storms move through, but it is another reason residents should be prepared and take warnings seriously.
A Few Simple Steps Can Help
Before storms arrive:
- Charge your phone.
- Bring outdoor furniture, toys and decorations inside.
- Keep flashlights handy in case the power goes out.
- Know your shelter location.
- Make sure children know where to go.
- Bring pets inside.
- Avoid unnecessary travel during severe storms.
- Never drive through flooded roads.
- Keep up with weather alerts throughout the day.
Residents should also remember that lightning is dangerous even when a storm does not appear severe. If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck by lightning, so move indoors.
When severe weather threatens Southern Indiana, the best approach is to prepare early, stay informed and act quickly when a warning is issued.
