Multiple rounds of severe thunderstorms moved across Northwest Indiana on Friday, bringing damaging winds, torrential rainfall, flooding, and widespread power outages while disrupting Fourth of July celebrations across the Region.

The first round of storms moved through during the afternoon with wind gusts approaching 70 mph in some areas. In Munster, four occupants of a vehicle, including two young children, escaped without injuries after a tree crashed onto their vehicle while they were traveling westbound on Ridge Road during a Severe Thunderstorm Warning. Munster Fire Department and Public Works crews responded within minutes, removing the tree and clearing the roadway in approximately 30 minutes.

As additional storms developed later in the evening, several community fireworks, residential firework shows and festivals were impacted or changed to an earlier time. Residents canceled their fireworks display due to the severe weather. Munster moved its fireworks show up to 8:45 p.m., allowing the event to finish just before the next round of rain arrived. Highland Fest was also shut down after severe thunderstorm warnings were issued.

The most significant storm damage from the evening storms appears to be concentrated in the West Hammond area. Multiple rounds of severe thunderstorms moved through between approximately 9:30 p.m. and midnight, leaving behind a large swath of damage. Numerous trees, power lines, and fences were reported down across dozens of blocks, primarily within the area bounded by Hohman Avenue to the west, Columbia Avenue to the east, Michigan Street to the north, and Becker Street to the south.

Heavy rainfall also led to significant flooding across northern Hammond, prompting the National Weather Service to issue a Flash Flood Warning. Preliminary rainfall totals ranged from 3 to 5 inches in a short period of time, resulting in flooded streets and hazardous travel conditions.

As crews continued to assess the damage overnight, NIPSCO reported approximately 20,000 customers without power across the Region.

Friday’s storms serve as another reminder that Severe Thunderstorm Warnings should never be taken lightly. While tornadoes often receive the most attention, straight-line winds of 70 mph or greater are capable of toppling large trees, bringing down power lines, damaging homes, and creating life-threatening conditions in a matter of seconds.

Additional thunderstorms are forecast for Saturday afternoon, and residents are encouraged to remain weather aware, avoid flooded roadways, and stay clear of downed power lines.