Severe Rainfall Alert Issued Across Indiana: Precautions and Impact Forecast

The National Weather Service has issued a severe rainfall alert across Indiana, warning residents of heavy rain, potential flash flooding, and severe thunderstorms expected through the evening and night.

On August 19, 2025, multiple weather alerts remain active, including flash flood warnings and gale warnings for areas such as Merrillville and the greater Northwest Indiana region. The flash flood warning for Merrillville is in effect until 11:30 PM, highlighting the immediate threat of heavy rainfall and flooding in low-lying areas and places with poor drainage.

Forecasters note that storms have already produced 2 to 3 inches of rain in far Northwest Indiana, with more intense rainfall and possibly severe storm activity expected through at least 10 PM EDT. These storms include the risk of damaging winds, large hail, and tornadoes, particularly across Northwest Indiana and the Chicago metropolitan area, where a severe storm watch is active until 6 PM.

In Northeast Illinois and parts of Northwest Indiana, flood watches remain in effect until early Tuesday morning, accompanied by storm warnings that include gale force winds reaching up to 50 knots and wave heights up to 10 feet affecting nearshore waters. Mariners are advised to remain in port and secure vessels due to hazardous conditions.

Residents in Central Indiana, including Indianapolis, should also prepare for scattered thunderstorms lasting into the night, with the potential for localized flooding and gusty winds. Temperatures during this period will be in the mid to upper 80s with high humidity, increasing the heat index.

Following these severe weather events, a trend toward cooler and more comfortable weather is forecasted by midweek, with clearing skies and highs in the low 80s expected from Wednesday onward.

Authorities urge Indiana residents to stay informed through official weather channels, heed warnings and watches, and take necessary precautions to ensure safety amid the ongoing severe rainfall and associated weather hazards.