Severe Storms Batter Northeast Indiana with 65 MPH Winds, 1-Inch Hail

Widespread damage reported across Fort Wayne, Warsaw, and surrounding areas after powerful thunderstorms sweep through Tuesday night.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 10:50am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Powerful thunderstorms packing wind gusts up to 65 mph and hail as large as 1 inch slammed northeast Indiana on Tuesday evening, causing widespread damage to trees, structures, and infrastructure across the Fort Wayne, Warsaw, and I-69 corridor areas. The National Weather Service reported multiple instances of downed trees, barn damage, and localized flooding from heavy rainfall totaling over 2 inches in some locations.

Why it matters

The severe weather event comes as the region enters peak severe storm season, highlighting the need for residents to stay vigilant and prepared for potentially dangerous conditions. Damage assessments are ongoing, and additional storms remain possible later this week, underscoring the importance of weather monitoring and emergency preparedness.

The details

According to the National Weather Service, the strongest storms developed during the evening hours on Tuesday, with clusters of severe thunderstorms sweeping through Fort Wayne, Warsaw, and areas along the I-69 corridor. Storm reports confirm multiple instances of quarter-size hail and isolated larger stones near Warsaw and Mentone. Rainfall totals reached significant levels, with Fort Wayne recording up to 2.51 inches and areas near North Webster seeing over 2.3 inches. Despite the intensity, no tornadoes were confirmed.

  • The severe storms developed between 2 p.m. and 9 p.m. on Tuesday, April 1, 2026.
  • Fort Wayne recorded up to 2.51 inches of rain during the storm event.
  • Areas near North Webster saw over 2.3 inches of rainfall.

The players

National Weather Service in Northern Indiana

The local office of the National Weather Service that issued reports and storm updates for the northeast Indiana region.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Damage assessments are ongoing, and the National Weather Service will continue to monitor the potential for additional severe storms later this week.

The takeaway

The severe weather event serves as a reminder for residents in northeast Indiana to be prepared for the region's peak severe storm season, with a need to stay vigilant and heed weather warnings and advisories to ensure public safety.