Severe weather possible for Bartholomew County on Thursday night, Friday morning

COLUMBUS, Ind. - Bartholomew County Emergency Management (BCEM) and the National Weather Service (NWS) have announced that there is a slight risk for severe weather for Columbus and Bartholomew County late Thursday night into early Friday morning.

After predicted record highs on Thursday afternoon in the low 80s, a cold front will move through the area late Thursday, bringing thunderstorms and gusty winds.

Potential severe weather could affect the region from 7 p.m. on Thursday until 1 a.m. on Friday. Rain, large hail, damaging winds (70 mph), and local flooding are possible during the period. An isolated tornado can not be ruled out.

NWS and BCEM are notifying residents to stay alert and have multiple ways to receive warnings (local radio, phone alerts, NOAA Weather Radio) and be prepared to take action if severe weather develops.