Clouds are parked over Indianapolis this morning, with temperatures hovering near 55°F at Indianapolis International Airport (KIND) and a slight chance of light rain before 8 a.m. A quick warm-up is on deck today, with highs near 70°F and sunshine breaking back out this afternoon, while breezy southwest winds keep conditions feeling lively. Any morning showers should be brief and light, but the commute could still feature some damp, slick roads.
Afternoon Winds Pick Up
Southwest winds will crank up through the afternoon, running about 10 to 16 mph with gusts that could reach 30 to 35 mph in more exposed spots. With enough mixing, some locations could flirt with record highs for February 18. Early in the day, low clouds and a brief spell of low-level wind shear could hassle a few flights and slow the morning drive, but conditions should improve by midday as drier air moves in. Tie down or bring in loose yard items, and plan on a breezy but mostly pleasant afternoon if you are heading outside.
Storm Risk Thursday
On Thursday, February 19, 2026, a stronger system moves in, and the National Weather Service is flagging a growing chance of strong to severe thunderstorms during the afternoon and evening. The highest risk is near and south of the I-70 corridor, where storms could deliver damaging wind gusts, isolated large hail, and even an isolated tornado. New rainfall totals Thursday night look to run around a quarter to a half inch in some spots, according to the National Weather Service. Keep an eye out for any watches or warnings and be ready to head indoors if severe thunderstorm or tornado alerts are issued by NWS Indianapolis.
What To Watch
If you live or work south of I-70 on Thursday afternoon, have a safety plan in mind. Move vehicles under cover if possible, and avoid driving through flooded intersections if heavier downpours develop. We will share updates if watches are issued; for more on how this setup is unfolding, see our earlier wind-whiplash forecast. Turn on weather alerts on your phone and check radar Thursday afternoon before committing to outdoor plans.
