Severe Thunderstorms Threaten Central Indiana With Damaging Winds, Hail and Heavy Rain
Radar Watch HQ is tracking a significant round of thunderstorms across central Indiana on Wednesday, August 26, 2026. A Severe Thunderstorm Warning is in effect for portions of Bartholomew County, Brown County, Greene County, Monroe County, Owen County, Johnson County, and Shelby County, while additional Special Weather Statements highlight strong thunderstorms across several surrounding communities.
The National Weather Service Indianapolis office says scattered thunderstorms are moving northwest to southeast across central Indiana, with some storms capable of becoming severe through the evening. The primary threats are damaging wind gusts and large hail, while locally heavy rainfall could also create flooding concerns. (National Weather Service)
Severe Thunderstorm Warning: Counties Being Monitored
The warning area includes:
- Bartholomew County, Indiana
- Brown County, Indiana
- Greene County, Indiana
- Monroe County, Indiana
- Owen County, Indiana
- Johnson County, Indiana
- Shelby County, Indiana
Residents in and around these counties should take the warning seriously and move indoors when thunderstorms approach.
What Makes These Storms Dangerous?
Severe thunderstorms can rapidly intensify as they interact with warm, humid air and atmospheric instability. Strong downdrafts within a thunderstorm can produce damaging straight-line winds, while powerful updrafts can support hail formation.
Even when a storm does not produce a tornado, damaging winds can break tree limbs, damage structures, create hazardous driving conditions and cause power outages.
Large hail can also damage vehicles, windows, roofs, crops and outdoor equipment.
Special Weather Statements Across Central Indiana
Additional Special Weather Statements are affecting or highlighting strong thunderstorms across:
- Johnson County, Indiana
- Brown County, Indiana
- Morgan County, Indiana
- Bartholomew County, Indiana
- Shelby County, Indiana
- Owen County, Indiana
- Greene County, Indiana
- Jackson County, Indiana
- Monroe County, Indiana
A Special Weather Statement generally highlights weather that may not meet the criteria for a formal warning but can still produce hazardous conditions.
For example, the National Weather Service recently highlighted a strong thunderstorm producing winds of around 40 mph and pea-sized hail in portions of central Indiana. (National Weather Service)
Hendricks County Power Outage Concerns
Power outages are also being reported in Hendricks County.
Strong thunderstorm winds can cause outages when trees or branches fall onto electrical lines. Lightning can also affect electrical infrastructure, while saturated ground can make it easier for strong winds to uproot trees.
Residents experiencing an outage should avoid downed power lines and treat every fallen electrical line as energized. Report outages through the local utility provider and stay away from damaged electrical equipment.
Heavy Rain Could Create Additional Problems
Thunderstorms are not only a wind and hail threat.
The National Weather Service is also warning that locally heavy rainfall is possible across central Indiana. (National Weather Service)
Because thunderstorms can produce intense rainfall over a short period, water can quickly collect on roads, in low-lying areas and near drainage systems.
Never Drive Through Flooded Roads
If water covers a roadway, turn around rather than attempting to cross it.
Floodwater can hide washed-out pavement, debris, sinkholes and other hazards. Even relatively shallow moving water can make a vehicle difficult or impossible to control.
What Residents Should Do Now
If you are underneath a Severe Thunderstorm Warning:
- Move indoors immediately.
- Stay away from windows and exterior doors.
- Bring lightweight outdoor objects inside if conditions allow you to do so safely.
- Unplug sensitive electronics if lightning is nearby and it can be done safely.
- Avoid flooded roads.
- Keep phones charged in case of a power outage.
- Monitor updated warnings because storm paths can change quickly.
If severe winds begin, move to an interior room away from windows and remain there until the storm passes.
Why Conditions Can Change Quickly
Central Indiana can experience rapidly changing thunderstorm conditions during the summer. The National Weather Service’s Wednesday outlook specifically identified the possibility of severe thunderstorms, with damaging winds and large hail as the primary threats. (National Weather Service)
As storms move from northwest to southeast, communities outside the initial warning area can still experience strong winds, hail, lightning and heavy rainfall.
That makes continuous monitoring important throughout the evening.
Radar Watch HQ Severe Weather Update
Radar Watch HQ will continue monitoring the developing thunderstorm activity across central Indiana, including Bartholomew, Brown, Greene, Monroe, Owen, Johnson and Shelby counties, along with surrounding communities under Special Weather Statements.
The combination of severe thunderstorms, strong winds, hail, heavy rainfall and power outage potential means residents should remain weather-aware and be prepared to act quickly if a warning is issued for their location.
Radar Watch HQ Final Thoughts
Wednesday evening’s storms serve as another reminder that severe weather does not have to produce a tornado to become dangerous. Damaging winds, large hail, lightning and flooding can all threaten lives and property.
If a Severe Thunderstorm Warning is issued for your location, do not wait for the storm to arrive. Get inside, stay away from windows and continue monitoring official weather information until the threat has passed.
Stay weather-aware. Stay prepared. Stay safe.
Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Radar Watch HQ earns from qualifying purchases.
Radar Watch HQ Top 5 Essential Emergency Preparedness Picks
Whether you’re preparing for severe thunderstorms, flash flooding, hurricanes, wildfires, or extended power outages, these five emergency essentials can help keep your household safer when severe weather strikes.
A portable power station provides reliable backup electricity during outages, allowing you to power phones, medical devices, laptops, lights, small appliances, and communication equipment without fuel.
Best for:
- Extended power outages
- Severe thunderstorms
- Hurricanes
- Winter storms
- Wildfires
2. Flood Protection Barriers & Sandless Flood Bags
Flood barriers help divert or absorb water before it enters garages, doorways, and low-lying areas. They deploy quickly and can help reduce property damage during flash flooding.
Best for:
- Flash Flood Warnings
- Heavy rainfall
- River flooding
- Coastal flooding
3. Rechargeable LED Flashlights
Bright, dependable flashlights are essential when the power goes out. Rechargeable or solar-powered models provide long-lasting illumination for navigating safely indoors and outdoors.
Best for:
- Overnight power outages
- Emergency evacuations
- Storm damage inspections
Keep phones, tablets, weather radios, and USB-powered devices charged when the electrical grid is unavailable. A solar power bank offers an additional charging option during prolonged emergencies.
Best for:
- Communication during outages
- Emergency weather alerts
- Travel and evacuation
A NOAA Weather Radio delivers official weather alerts directly from the National Weather Service, even when cellular networks or internet service are unavailable. It remains one of the most dependable ways to receive life-saving warnings.
Best for:
- Tornado warnings
- Severe thunderstorm warnings
- Flash flood warnings
- Hurricane alerts
- Winter storm emergencies
Why Radar Watch HQ Recommends These Essentials
At Radar Watch HQ, preparedness is just as important as staying informed. These five emergency essentials can help you stay connected, protect your property, and safely navigate severe weather events. Having supplies ready before storms arrive allows you to respond quickly when warnings are issued and conditions begin to deteriorate.
