NWS Issues Severe Thunderstorm Watch for 20 Indiana Counties as Flood Risks Persist
Updated
Updated · IndyStar · Aug 16
NWS Issues Severe Thunderstorm Watch for 20 Indiana Counties as Flood Risks Persist
3 articles · Updated · IndyStar · Aug 16
Summary
A severe thunderstorm watch covers Marion County and about 20 central and southern Indiana counties until 9 p.m. Sunday, with the National Weather Service warning that new storms could trigger more flash flooding.
Wind gusts could reach 70 mph with quarter-size hail as a storm cluster moves in from Illinois, while isolated cells may dump brief heavy rain on ground already saturated by days of flooding.
At least 7 storm-related deaths have been reported statewide since Aug. 11, and the White River’s slow retreat from historic highs means even modest additional rainfall could worsen flooding.
Hamilton County, though outside the watch, is still dealing with a record White River crest above 24 feet, road closures and home damage as residents in Riverwood and other hard-hit areas begin cleanup.
In Indianapolis, flood gates have reopened in Rocky Ripple and north Broad Ripple, allowing some evacuees to return even as officials and volunteers continue broader recovery efforts.