Indiana Winter Storm Intensifies From Fort Wayne to Indianapolis as Heavy Snow, Blowing Drifts, and Near-Impossible Travel Develop
INDIANA — A major winter storm is now underway across Indiana, with conditions expected to rapidly deteriorate through Saturday night and persist into Monday as snowfall rates increase, winds strengthen, and travel becomes increasingly dangerous statewide.
Weather officials say the system has only just begun, with snowfall intensity ramping up overnight. By Sunday morning, travel across large portions of Indiana is expected to be extremely difficult, with some areas facing near-impassable roads.
Northern Indiana Faces Widespread Slick and Hazardous Roads
Moderate snowfall is expected Saturday night into Sunday across all of northern Indiana, creating widespread slick conditions on roadways. Drivers should expect poor traction, reduced visibility, and classic winter driving hazards through the weekend.
Officials warn that even treated roads may remain snow-covered for extended periods due to cold temperatures limiting the effectiveness of road salt.
High Impact Snow Zone From Fort Wayne to Lafayette
A high-impact snowfall zone has been placed along and south of Fort Wayne extending westward toward Lafayette. This corridor is expected to experience higher snowfall totals and faster accumulation rates, making it difficult for plow crews to keep up.
Travel is strongly discouraged from late Saturday night through all of Sunday in this zone, as rapidly deteriorating road conditions may lead to stalled vehicles and dangerous situations.
Extreme Snowfall Expected South of I-70
The most severe impacts are forecast south of Interstate 70, including areas near Indianapolis, Bloomington, Terre Haute, and surrounding communities. This region is expected to receive the heaviest snowfall, with totals potentially exceeding one foot in some locations.
Officials warn that plow crews may be unable to keep up with snowfall rates in these areas, and some roads could become completely impassable. Residents are urged to stay off the roads beginning Saturday afternoon and remain home through at least Monday morning if possible.
Strong Winds and Blowing Snow Will Worsen Conditions
North winds gusting up to 25 mph are expected through Sunday night into Monday, causing significant blowing and drifting snow—especially in rural areas. These conditions will further reduce visibility and may quickly cover previously cleared roads.
With light, fluffy snow expected, drifting could continue even after snowfall tapers off.
Cold Temperatures Will Prolong Travel Hazards
Road conditions are expected to remain dangerous well into next week as temperatures stay below levels where road salt is effective. Officials caution that snow-covered and icy roads may persist longer than usual, even after the storm exits the region. Residents are urged to finalize preparations, avoid unnecessary travel, and monitor local updates as conditions continue to worsen.
Stay with SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com for continued coverage, safety updates, and regional storm impacts as this major Indiana winter storm unfolds.
