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WEATHER DESK · PREPARE THIS WEEK

Storm risk returns to the Midwest this week: what La Porte should watch

Dangerous heat is already affecting the region, and the National Weather Service says waves of thunderstorms may cross parts of the Midwest Thursday and Friday. Damaging wind, hail and localized flooding are possible, but the exact track and timing remain uncertain.

· By Daniel Schlief · Forecast analysis from official National Weather Service information

What forecasters are saying

The National Weather Service Chicago office reported a low severe-weather chance Tuesday in northeast Illinois and portions of northwest Indiana, with damaging wind and hail the primary hazards if a storm developed. The office emphasized that no storms at all remained the more likely outcome Tuesday.

The more important part of the forecast arrives later. The same outlook says waves of severe thunderstorms may move through the general region Thursday and Friday. It also identifies a limited flooding risk and continued dangerous heat, especially south of Interstate 80.

That regional outlook does not guarantee that La Porte County will be hit. Storm corridors can shift north or south, and later forecast updates will be more useful than a single model image shared days in advance.

The main risks to prepare for

  • Damaging straight-line wind: Strong thunderstorms can bring down trees and power lines even without a tornado.
  • Large hail: Hail can damage vehicles, roofs, crops and outdoor equipment.
  • Localized flooding: Repeated downpours may overwhelm poor-drainage areas, ditches and low roads.
  • Dangerous heat: Heat and humidity can cause illness before storms arrive and may increase strain if power is lost.
  • Frequent lightning: If thunder is audible, move indoors. A porch, dugout or open shelter is not adequate protection.

Prepare before storms form

  1. Charge phones and backup batteries Wednesday night.
  2. Secure trash cans, patio furniture, trampolines and loose outdoor objects.
  3. Park vehicles under sturdy cover if it can be done safely.
  4. Keep flashlights ready and avoid relying on candles.
  5. Know your safest room: a basement or a small interior room on the lowest floor, away from windows.
  6. Refill necessary medicine and have water, pet supplies and easy food available.
  7. Make sure Wireless Emergency Alerts are enabled and keep a way to receive warnings overnight.
  8. Never approach a fallen wire. Report outages to the utility and call 911 for immediate danger.

Know the warning language

A severe thunderstorm watch means conditions are favorable and people should be ready to act. A severe thunderstorm warning means severe weather is occurring or imminent—move indoors and away from windows. A tornado warning means take shelter immediately in the safest available place.

Warnings are issued for specific storms and locations. Do not assume a forecast graphic days ahead is a warning, and do not wait for a tornado siren before taking shelter. Outdoor sirens are designed primarily for people outside.

Stay informed as the forecast changes

Forecasts will change as Thursday and Friday approach. La Porte Weather Now will continue checking official alerts and local conditions. Readers should use the National Weather Service for warning decisions and verify dramatic social-media claims against current official information.

Official information

Forecast note: this story reflects official information available early Tuesday afternoon, September 1. Severe-weather probabilities and the favored storm corridor may change. Always use current warnings for immediate decisions.