FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WOWO): Northeast Indiana is facing an increased threat of severe weather Wednesday, with forecasters warning that strong tornadoes, damaging winds, large hail, and flooding are all possible as multiple rounds of thunderstorms move through the region. The National Weather Service ha s placed much of northern Indiana under an Enhanced Risk (Level 3 of 5) for severe weather, while areas west of Fort Wayne are under a Moderate Risk (Level 4 of 5), indicating widespread severe storms are possible. Officials say the tornado threat has expanded farther north and east compared to previous forecasts. Forecasters are expecting two rounds of storms Wednesday. The first round is expected between 1 p.m. and 5 p.m., with damaging wind gusts up to 60 mph as the primary concern. While the risk for tornadoes and hail during the afternoon remains lower, they cannot be completely ruled out. The second round, expected between 5 p.m. and midnight, poses the greatest threat. The National Weather Service says storms during this period could produce wind gusts exceeding 70 mph, large hail, flash flooding, and tornadoes, including the possibility of strong tornadoes. Confidence in severe weather during the evening and overnight hours is medium to high. Meteorologists say there is high confidence that at least scattered severe storms will develop, with a medium confidence level that significant severe weather could become widespread across portions of the region. The timing of the evening storms may shift by an hour or two, but forecasters expect the threat to continue well after sunset. In addition to the severe weather threat, a Flood Watch has been issued for areas along and north of U.S. 24 from 2 p.m. Wednesday through 2 a.m. Thursday. Rainfall totals of 1 to 2 inches are expected across much of northern Indiana, with isolated amounts of 3 to 4 inches possible. The National Weather Service warns that the heavy rain could lead to flooding in low-lying areas, urban locations, and places with poor drainage. Residents are urged to closely monitor weather conditions throughout the day and ensure they have multiple ways to receive warnings, especially during the overnight hours when severe storms may strike after dark. NOAA Weather Radio, smartphone alerts, local media, and weather apps are all recommended methods for receiving life-saving warning information. WOWO News will continue to provide updates throughout the day as the severe weather threat develops. The post Severe Weather Threat Increasing Across Northeast Indiana on Wednesday appeared first on WOWO News/Talk 92.3 FM and 1190 AM. ...read more read less