Basketball fans in downtown Indianapolis will want to keep an eye on the local weather through the weekend.
The National Weather Service in Indianapolis predicted strong and potentially severe thunderstorms Saturday afternoon into the evening, and the rain has just arrived.
Here’s what we know about the weather ahead of the WNBA All-Star Game happening Saturday night.
Hazardous Weather Outlook from NWS
NWS Indianapolis issued a Hazardous Weather Outlook early Saturday morning.
“Strong to severe storms are possible this afternoon into early evening, with damaging winds the primary threat, along with locally heavy rain and flash flooding,” the outlook said. “Additional thunderstorms will be possible tonight, with heavy rain and flooding remaining possible.”
Most of the state is currently at a level 2, meaning there is a slight threat of excessive rainfall statewide.
Rain and thunderstorms are expected to continue throughout the evening through 9 p.m., at least.
Primary threats during Saturday, July 19 thunderstorms
The primary threats of the storms are damaging winds, heavy rain and localized flooding.
According to NWS, the risk for tornadoes and hail is low, with only isolated, brief tornadoes and small hail possible. We could see 60-70 mph winds and localized flash flooding as a result of these thunderstorms.
Flash flooding can develop quickly, so it is crucial to be weather aware.
Storms may continue on Sunday, July 20
Showers are likely and a thunderstorm before 7 a.m. is possible on Sunday, July 20. The rest of the day is expected to be mostly cloudy. The chance of precipitation is 60%.
Showers and thunderstorms are possible throughout the evening and overnight.
Stay weather aware
With flash flooding possible this evening, be sure to check the Indiana Department of Homeland Security’s website to make sure a travel advisory is not in place.
At the time of publication, there is not an elevated status in Marion County.
You can also follow NWS Indianapolis on X, formerly Twitter, for updates on severe weather around the state and check AccuWeather for hourly weather updates.
➤ Weather alerts via text: Sign up to get updates about current storms and weather events by location
Indianapolis weather radar
Los recursos del tiempo de Indiana en Español
Para residentes hispanohablantes en Indiana, IndyStar tiene una página web de recursos para el tiempo en Español. La página web es accesible aquí o visite weather.gov/ind/espanol para encontrar el pronóstico del tiempo diario, condiciones próximas e información adicional de seguridad de NWS.
Katie Wiseman covers trending news for IndyStar and Midwest Connect. Contact her at klwiseman@gannett.com. Follow her on Bluesky @katiewiseman
This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Thunderstorms to continue in Indianapolis during WNBA All-Star Weekend