Indiana Severe Weather Facts

Storm Team 6 wants you to be safe during the storm. Here are some facts about severe weather, including thunderstorms, flooding, lightning and tornadoes.

Thunderstorms

Thunderstorms are classified as severe if producing 58 mph wind or ¾-inch hail.

Few thunderstorms are classified as severe but lightning makes all thunderstorms dangerous.

Typically, thunderstorms last around 30 minutes, but supercell thunderstorms, which are responsible for most severe weather, can last for hours.

Flooding

Flash floods are the No. 1 cause of death associated with thunderstorms.

Most flooding fatalities happen at night in automobiles.

Turn Around Don't Drown -- Never drive through flooded roadways.

6 inches of fast-moving water can knock you off your feet. A depth of 2 feet will cause most cars to float.

Flash floods do happen in Indiana. On Labor Day 2003, more than 7 inches of rain fell in Indianapolis, setting an all-time record.

Tornadoes

The Evansville tornado that occurred in November 2006 in the middle of the night is a good reminder that they can happen at any time of day and any time of year.

Most tornadoes occur between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m.

Fortunately, most tornadoes are considered weak, with winds of under 110 mph and last less than 10 minutes.

Indiana has been a part of nearly every significant tornado outbreak in the U.S.

The average tornado moves from southwest to northeast at about 30 mph. Tornadoes can move as fast as 70 mph.