Central Indiana under severe weather risk tonight

Forecasters warn of damaging winds, hail, flooding, and possible tornadoes

Apr. 14, 2026 at 7:40pm

A sweeping, atmospheric landscape painting in muted tones of grey, blue, and gold, depicting an ominous storm system dominating the horizon and dwarfing any visible structures or objects in the scene, conveying the sublime scale and power of an impending severe weather event.As a severe storm system approaches, the overwhelming power of nature is on full display in the skies over central Indiana.Columbus Today

The National Weather Service has issued a slight risk of severe weather for much of central Indiana, including parts of Bartholomew, Johnson, Shelby, and Decatur counties, with a marginal risk for the southern half of Bartholomew as well as Brown, Jackson, and Jennings counties. Hazards could include damaging winds up to 60 mph, large hail, heavy rain leading to localized flooding, and isolated tornadoes.

Why it matters

Severe weather can cause significant property damage, power outages, and pose a threat to public safety. The weather service's risk assessments help local authorities and residents prepare for and respond to potentially dangerous conditions.

The details

The National Weather Service in Indianapolis has placed most of central Indiana, including the northern part of Bartholomew County as well as Johnson, Shelby and Decatur counties, under a slight risk of severe weather this afternoon and into the evening. The southern half of Bartholomew, along with Brown, Jackson and Jennings counties, are under a marginal risk. Forecasters warn of hazards including damaging winds up to 60 mph, very large hail, heavy rain that could lead to localized flooding, and the possibility of isolated tornadoes.

  • The severe weather is expected to develop this afternoon and continue into the evening hours.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for weather forecasting and issuing severe weather alerts and warnings.

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What’s next

Local authorities are monitoring the situation closely and will issue any necessary warnings or advisories as the severe weather approaches. Residents should stay tuned to local media and be prepared to take shelter if threatening conditions develop.

The takeaway

This serves as a reminder for central Indiana residents to stay vigilant and be prepared for the possibility of severe storms, which can cause significant damage and pose a threat to public safety. Heeding weather warnings and taking appropriate precautions can help minimize the impact.