Search

Strong storms forecast for Wednesday afternoon, evening

Courtesy-National Weather Service

SOUTH-CENTRAL, Ind. - Pop-up thunderstorms traveled through parts of central and southern Indiana on Tuesday, and the National Weather Service (NWS) in Indianapolis says a more potent system could move into the state on Wednesday. It might mean an increased risk of severe weather in the region. 

The possible showers and thunderstorms are expected to arrive in two rounds on Wednesday for Bartholomew, Johnson, Jackson, Jennings, Shelby, Decatur, and Brown Counties in south-central Indiana.

The first round is forecast for early afternoon, and the second, a more intense system, is predicted to move through between 9 and 11 p.m. Any lingering rain is expected to end by 4 a.m. on Thursday.   

The severe weather potential for Wednesday evening includes straight-line winds and thunderstorms. NWS says supercell thunderstorms and tornadoes cannot be ruled out. Any watches or warnings would not be issued until later in the day as weather patterns become clearer. 

Although not a prediction at this time, the storms could contain larger hail (1-2 inches), damaging or destructive winds (60-80 mph), and tornadoes.

South-central Indiana residents are advised to be "weather-aware" and monitor forecasts throughout the day. 

More from Bartholomew County News

  • City of Columbus begins renovations at Fire Stations 3 and 5

    COLUMBUS, Ind. - The City of Columbus has initiated comprehensive renovation and repair projects at fire stations 3 and 5 to rectify moisture issues, remediate mold, and modernize heating/air-conditioning systems. These efforts underscore the city's commitment to providing a safe and healthy environment for its firefighters.    

  • ColumBUS Transit updates bus loops starting Tuesday

    COLUMBUS, Ind. - ColumBUS Transit will be rolling out upgrades to the bus loop system beginning this Tuesday, August 18. To better serve the community, riders will see enhancements to the Blue, Green, and Red-Taylorsville loops.    

  • 'Moonlight Loop' bike ride is Saturday

    COLUMBUS, Ind. - The 2026 "Moonlight Loop" bike ride to benefit Columbus Animal Care Services (CACS) is this Saturday, August 22. The leisurely 19-mile, police-escorted ride through Columbus leaves from the Bartholomew County Public Library Plaza at 9 p.m.

  • Gov. Braun declares statewide disaster emergency

    STATE OF INDIANA - Governor Mike Braun has declared a statewide disaster emergency due to the flooding, severe weather, and tornadic activity that have impacted the state since August 11.

  • UPDATE: Bartholomew County assesses storm damage on north side of Columbus

    COLUMBUS, Ind. -Bartholomew County Emergency Management (BCEM) received reports of storm damage in the north Columbus area following thunderstorms on Friday night, August 14.

Community Calender

Today's Weather

  • Bartholomew County Weather

    Thunder storm

    High: 82°F | Low: 63°F

Follow Local News Digital on