INDIANA, USA — Wind will be a huge issue all day Friday across Indiana. While gusts may not peak around 60 MPH until 4 to 7 PM, it will be breezy from sunrise to sunset, creating a long window of opportunity for wind damage and power outages across the state.
Tap HERE for the latest peak wind forecast and timing across Indiana from Hurricane Helene.
This long duration wind event will be tough on power lines and trees.
- 30+ MPH wind gusts (sustained 20) MPH: 26 hours straight
- 40+ MPH wind gusts (sustained 25 MPH): 12 hours straight
- 50+ MPH wind gusts (sustained 30 MPH): 5 hours straight
- 60 MPH wind gusts (sustained 30-40 MPH): 2 hours straight
That's a lot of wind over a long time.
Damage possibilities
High wind gusts can add up quickly.
- 30-40 MPH wind gusts: some leaves will fall, trees begin to sway
- 40-50 MPH wind gusts: more leaves falling, trees sway, walking can be a bit difficult, some power outages possible
- 50-60 MPH wind gusts: many leaves falling, trees sway, limbs break off, weak trees fall, tall vehicles veer on the interstate, numerous power outages
- 60+ MPH wind gusts: lots of leaves fall, trees bending and swaying, larger tree limbs break, some trees fall, all vehicles may veer on the interstate, widespread power outages.
Indiana wind forecast
When factor our top wind gusts, plus the long duration of breezy conditions expected from Helene as it passes by Indiana, we are expecting:
- numerous power outages, especially central and southern Indiana
- outdoor events postponed/moved/cancelled
- higher chance for traffic accidents
- lots of fall leaves falling (but not all!)
- tree limb damage and some weaker trees falling
- numerous power outages (could last a day or two in some cases)
This is on top of a half inch to 2 inches of rain falling on Friday. The highest totals will be south of Indianapolis.
The weekend will be a bit breezy too, however wind gusts should top out around 25 MPH. Rain will continue on and off through the weekend.