Indiana, December 29, 2025
Central Indiana is bracing for severe storms and a drastic temperature drop as a powerful cold front approaches. The region faces the risk of damaging winds, large hail, and isolated tornadoes, prompting a Tornado Watch. Residents are advised to take safety precautions and prepare for icy conditions as temperatures are expected to plummet from the 60s to around 17°F, compounded by dangerous wind chills.
Severe Storms and Rapid Temperature Drop Impact Central Indiana
Indianapolis, IN – A powerful cold front is set to move through central Indiana this evening, bringing a significant drop in temperatures and the potential for severe storms. Residents are advised to stay alert and prepare for rapidly changing weather conditions.
Severe Storm Risk
As the cold front approaches, central Indiana is expected to experience strong to severe thunderstorms this evening. The primary threats include damaging wind gusts up to 75 mph, large hail, and the possibility of isolated tornadoes. The National Weather Service has issued a Tornado Watch for portions of western and central Indiana, including the Indianapolis metro area, effective from 3:45 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. EST. A Tornado Watch indicates that conditions are favorable for tornado development; however, a Tornado Warning is issued when a tornado is spotted or indicated by radar. Residents should remain vigilant and have a plan in place to seek shelter if a warning is issued.
Rapid Temperature Drop
Alongside the severe storm risk, temperatures are expected to plummet sharply this evening. Highs today are forecasted to reach the lower 60s, but a cold front will cause temperatures to drop to around 17°F (-8°C) by tonight, with wind chills making it feel even colder. This rapid temperature change can lead to hazardous conditions, including icy roads and potential flash freezes. Residents should exercise caution when traveling and dress appropriately for the cold.
Safety Precautions
Given the combination of severe weather and rapidly dropping temperatures, it’s crucial for residents to take the following precautions:
- Stay Informed: Monitor local weather updates and heed any warnings or advisories issued by the National Weather Service.
- Prepare for Power Outages: Ensure you have flashlights, batteries, and other emergency supplies readily available.
- Secure Outdoor Items: Bring in or secure any outdoor furniture or decorations that could become hazardous in high winds.
- Dress Appropriately: Wear layers and cover exposed skin to protect against the cold and wind chills.
- Travel Cautiously: If possible, avoid traveling during severe weather conditions. If you must travel, exercise extreme caution and be prepared for rapidly changing road conditions.
Background Context
Central Indiana has experienced a range of severe weather events in recent months. In November 2025, the region faced its earliest Winter Storm Warning since 1983, with moderate to heavy snowfall affecting areas north of the I-70 corridor. Additionally, a significant winter storm in December 2025 brought blizzard conditions and dangerous wind chills to parts of the Upper Midwest, including Indiana. These events highlight the region’s susceptibility to rapidly changing and severe weather patterns during the winter months.
Forecast
Looking ahead, the National Weather Service forecasts a return to more typical winter weather patterns, with below-normal temperatures and increased chances of precipitation across central Indiana. Residents should remain prepared for potential winter storms and continue to monitor local weather updates for the latest information.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is a Tornado Watch?
A Tornado Watch means that conditions are favorable for tornadoes to form. It does not mean that a tornado has been spotted or indicated by radar. Residents should remain alert and be prepared to take action if a Tornado Warning is issued.
How quickly can temperatures drop during a cold front?
Temperatures can drop rapidly during the passage of a cold front. In this case, temperatures are expected to fall from the lower 60s to around 17°F (-8°C) within a few hours, with wind chills making it feel even colder.
What should I do to prepare for severe weather?
Stay informed by monitoring local weather updates, prepare for power outages by having emergency supplies, secure outdoor items that could become hazardous in high winds, dress appropriately for the cold, and exercise caution when traveling during severe weather conditions.
Key Features of Today’s Weather Event
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Severe Storm Risk | Strong to severe thunderstorms with damaging winds up to 75 mph, large hail, and potential isolated tornadoes. Tornado Watch issued for portions of western and central Indiana from 3:45 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. EST. |
| Rapid Temperature Drop | Temperatures expected to drop from the lower 60s to around 17°F (-8°C) by tonight, with wind chills making it feel even colder. |
| Safety Precautions | Stay informed, prepare for power outages, secure outdoor items, dress appropriately for the cold, and exercise caution when traveling during severe weather conditions. |
| Background Context | Recent severe weather events in central Indiana include a Winter Storm Warning in November 2025 and a significant winter storm in December 2025 bringing blizzard conditions and dangerous wind chills. |
| Forecast | Return to typical winter weather patterns with below-normal temperatures and increased chances of precipitation across central Indiana. |
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Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
