Record Warmth and Storm Chances Forecast for Indianapolis

Warm temperatures and thunderstorm risk expected this week

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

The main weather impacts this week in Indianapolis are record warmth on Wednesday, with highs near 70 degrees, and a chance of showers and thunderstorms on Thursday, some of which could be strong to severe.

Why it matters

The unseasonably warm temperatures and potential for severe storms could impact travel, outdoor activities, and energy usage in the Indianapolis area this week.

The details

Tuesday will see patchy fog early, then mostly cloudy skies with highs in the upper 50s. A few showers and thunderstorms are possible Tuesday night into early Wednesday. Wednesday is expected to be the warmest day, with highs near 70 degrees potentially breaking the record high of 66 set in 2017. After an early morning rain chance, Wednesday afternoon should be sunny. On Thursday, showers are possible early in the day with some thunderstorms later. Forecast highs are in the lower 60s, and the Storm Prediction Center has highlighted parts of central Indiana for the potential of strong to severe storms on Thursday.

  • Tuesday morning will see patchy fog early.
  • Tuesday night into early Wednesday, a few showers and thunderstorms are possible.
  • Wednesday is expected to be the warmest day, with highs near 70 degrees.
  • The record high temperature for Indianapolis on Wednesday is 66 degrees, set in 2017.
  • Thursday will have a chance of showers early in the day and thunderstorms later.

The players

Indianapolis

The city in central Indiana that is the focus of this weather forecast.

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The takeaway

The combination of record warmth and the potential for severe storms this week in Indianapolis could have significant impacts on the local community, requiring residents to stay alert and prepared for changing weather conditions.