INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - Central Indiana faces a threat of severe thunderstorms today as a cold front moves through the state, bringing risks of damaging winds and even an isolated tornado.

Severe Threat Shifts Southeast

While much of central Indiana will see scattered storms, the greatest risk for severe weather is focused on the southeastern portions of the state. Because the cold front is moving quickly, areas in the northwest will likely see rain move through before the atmosphere fully destabilizes.

This means Indianapolis sits right in the middle-we’ll see storms, but the most intense activity will likely be south and east of the metro area as the day progresses.

Timing and Hazards

Storms are expected to develop from mid-morning through the afternoon hours, with the most active period between noon and 5 p.m.

Primary threat: Damaging wind gusts up to 60 mph capable of downing trees and power lines.

Other risks:

• Quarter-size hail possible in stronger cells
• Localized flooding in areas that see repeated storm activity
• Small but non-zero risk for an isolated tornado, particularly in southeastern Indiana

The rain is expected to clear out by early evening, ushering in a much cooler and quieter night with temperatures dropping into the low 60s-a welcome change from recent muggy conditions.

A Refreshing Second Half of the Week

Once today’s front passes, a secondary push of dry air will move in Wednesday. This will set the stage for a beautiful stretch of weather through Friday.

High temperatures will stay in the 70s to near 80 degrees-well below typical July heat-with very low humidity as dry air sinks into the region from the north. Overnight lows will drop into the upper 50s to low 60s, making for comfortable sleeping weather with the windows open.

Warming Back Up This Weekend

High pressure remains the dominant feature through Saturday, keeping things dry and pleasant. However, the heat returns Sunday and Monday as temperatures climb back into the mid-80s to near 90 in some spots.

Rain chances also return late Sunday into early next week. While there is still uncertainty in the timing, another round of strong storms is possible by Monday afternoon as moisture builds back into central Indiana. We’ll have a better handle on that timing as we get closer to the weekend.

7 Day Forecast: