Residents across central Indiana are being urged to remain weather-aware Thursday afternoon and evening as the National Weather Service has extended a Severe Thunderstorm Watch through 8 p.m. EDT while a Flood Watch remains in effect through midnight Saturday.
Severe Thunderstorm Watch
Severe Thunderstorm Watch has been extended to include nine Indiana counties, including Boone, Clinton, Hendricks, Clay, Montgomery, Owen, Putnam, Tippecanoe and Vigo counties.
Strong to severe thunderstorms are possible this afternoon and evening, with damaging winds identified as the primary threat.
Flooding Remains a Concern
A broader Flood Watch remains in effect through Friday evening, with portions of central, east central, north central, south central, southeast, southwest and west central Indiana included.
The Flood Watch includes Clinton, Boone, Carroll, Tippecanoe, Montgomery, Howard, Tipton, Hamilton, Madison, Hendricks, Marion, Warren, Fountain, Vermillion, Parke, Putnam, Vigo and numerous surrounding counties.
The National Weather Service says flash flooding caused by excessive rainfall continues to be possible. Flooding is already ongoing in some areas, and additional rainfall is expected through Friday night.
Excessive runoff could lead to flooding along rivers, creeks and streams, as well as in low-lying and other flood-prone locations.
Additional Rain Expected
Forecasters warn that flooding will continue primarily across eastern portions of central Indiana. Some portions of the Upper White River and Big Blue River may reach major flood stage.
Strong to severe storms are possible this afternoon and evening, followed by an increased threat for flash flooding overnight, particularly along the I-74 corridor.
Residents in areas experiencing flooding should never drive through flooded roadways and should be prepared to move to higher ground if conditions worsen.
Residents are encouraged to continue monitoring updates from the National Weather Service and local emergency management officials as storms and flooding develop.