Heavy rain and thunderstorms moved through central Indiana yesterday, bringing some locally strong winds. A few reports of tree damage and downed power lines came in, but overall, the severe weather impacts were not widespread. The cold front responsible for the storms has now moved through, and drier weather is settling in today.
We’ll have a mix of sun and clouds Thursday with just an isolated chance for a shower or thunderstorm, mainly during the afternoon. Most locations will stay dry. Highs will be in the lower to middle 80s, with comfortable humidity compared to yesterday. Tonight will be mostly clear with temperatures falling into the 60s.
A special treat is in store for us tonight as the full moon passes through Earth’s shadow. This will be a deep partial lunar eclipse, with roughly 96% of the moon entering the darkest part of Earth’s shadow at the peak of the eclipse. In Indianapolis, the partial eclipse begins at 10:33 p.m. Thursday, with the maximum eclipse occurring at 12:12 a.m. Friday.
The partial phase wraps up around 1:51 a.m. The moon can take on a reddish or coppery appearance as it moves through Earth’s shadow. The best part? You don’t need any special equipment or protective glasses to watch a lunar eclipse. With skies staying mostly clear tonight, central Indiana should have a good opportunity to see it.
Friday will be mostly sunny and dry with highs climbing back to the middle 80s. The weekend will be warmer, with plenty of sunshine and temperatures approaching 90° by Sunday. The heat really ramps up into next week.
Highs are expected to reach the lower to middle 90s for several days, and humidity will increase as well. The heat index could climb toward 100° or higher during the hottest afternoons. Indianapolis has already recorded 17 days at or above 90° this year, and another stretch of 90° heat is likely before August comes to a close.
With another heat wave possible, make sure to stay hydrated, take breaks from the heat and check on pets, children and those who may be more vulnerable to high temperatures…