Severe Storms Bring Dramatic Temperature Plunge Across Indiana

Powerful winds, hail, and tornadoes hit the state, leading to two fatalities and widespread power outages.

Mar. 11, 2026 at 10:50pm

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A powerful storm system moved through Indiana on Wednesday, bringing severe thunderstorms, high winds, hail, and several tornadoes. The storms caused widespread damage, including downed trees and power lines, and resulted in two fatalities in Newton County. Temperatures plummeted by nearly 30 degrees in just a few hours, marking one of the largest single-day temperature drops on record in Indianapolis.

Why it matters

The severe weather and dramatic temperature swing highlight the unpredictable and extreme nature of Indiana's spring weather patterns. This type of volatile weather can pose significant risks to public safety and infrastructure, underscoring the importance of preparedness and resilience in the face of such events.

The details

The storms produced a peak wind gust of 70 mph in Middletown, Henry County, and resulted in nearly 600 storm reports nationwide, mostly from wind and hail. A long-lived supercell storm that originated along a warm front in Illinois spawned several tornadoes, including one in Newton County that claimed two lives. This marks the fourth straight year that Indiana has seen at least one tornado fatality.

  • The storms hit early Wednesday morning, ahead of a cold front.
  • Temperatures fell nearly 30 degrees in just a few hours on Wednesday.
  • Thursday is expected to see temperatures dip below freezing for the first time in 10 days, with highs only reaching the upper 40s.

The players

Newton County

The location where two fatalities occurred due to the tornado.

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What’s next

The National Weather Service will continue to investigate the extent of the damage and determine the strength of the tornadoes that touched down. Authorities will also work to restore power and clear debris in the affected areas.

The takeaway

The severe storms and dramatic temperature swings in Indiana serve as a reminder of the importance of being prepared for unpredictable and extreme weather events. Residents should stay vigilant, heed weather warnings, and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their property.