Updated 03.16.21 @ 6:38p
Most of our St. Patrick’s Day should be dry with temperatures returning to above normal levels (around 60° for the majority of central Indiana neighborhoods). There will be a “squeeze play” of sorts that develops Wednesday night into Thursday morning that will keep downstate in the running for a couple of strong thunderstorms. The Storm Prediction Center continues to include southern Indiana in the marginal or slight risk category.
The greatest threat from stronger storms across southern Indiana should come in the form of large hail, and we bracket the hours of 11p Wednesday to 5a Thursday for the worst of the weather with this particular storm system for downstate. For central Indiana, including Indianapolis, thunderstorms are also expected, but these will be elevated in nature and shouldn’t pose a severe threat with a much cooler, more stable air mass in place.
Note how the brief surge of milder air downstate is met with the pressing chill across northern and central IN Thursday morning. Eventually this colder air wins out across the region.
Before the drier, colder air wins out, another widespread soaking is expected- including 1″+ amounts for most of immediate central Indiana.
All of this unsettled weather will clear out of here for the weekend. We still expect high pressure to provide plentiful sunshine and increasingly warmer temperatures throughout. Gear up to find that perfect spot on your favorite patio and catch some March Madness!
