Indiana Braces for 1–4 Inches of Snow and 50+ MPH Wind Gusts as Backside Snow and Lake-Effect Bands Create Whiteout Conditions Monday
INDIANA — Forecasters have issued the first snowfall projections for Indiana, warning that light backside snow Sunday night into Monday, combined with lake-effect bands and wind gusts exceeding 50 mph, may produce dangerous whiteout conditions across northern parts of the state.
Northern Indiana Could See 1–4 Inches of Snow
According to early snowfall estimates, locations including Gary, South Bend, Angola, and Fort Wayne are expected to receive between 1 and 4 inches of accumulation. Lake-effect snow will enhance totals in far northern counties, contributing to higher localized amounts.
Other regions across Indiana should expect trace to 1 inch, including Indianapolis, Kokomo, Lafayette, Terre Haute, Bloomington, and New Albany. Southern Indiana may see little to no accumulation, with Evansville projected at 0 inches.
Whiteout Conditions Expected as Winds Reach 50+ MPH
Meteorologists warn that snowfall itself is not the primary hazard. Instead, strong winds gusting above 50 mph and frequent snow squalls may create whiteout conditions, especially in northern counties. Forecasters emphasize that visibility could drop rapidly, making travel extremely dangerous at times.
The combination of loose, dry snow and powerful winds may also result in drifting, blowing snow, and unexpected road hazards throughout the region.
Snow Begins Sunday Night and Continues Through Monday
Light snow is expected to begin Sunday night as colder air moves in behind the departing storm system. Lake-effect bands will persist into Monday, prolonging the risk for sudden bursts of snowfall and visibility reductions. Forecast models indicate that the highest snow amounts will occur north of U.S. 30, where lake-effect support is strongest.
Localized Higher Amounts Possible in Lake-Effect Zones
Forecasters note that lake-effect snow can produce significant variations over short distances, meaning certain communities may see higher totals than forecast, while others receive only a dusting. Areas near South Bend, LaPorte, and Elkhart County are particularly prone to rapid snowfall changes.
Drivers are urged to avoid unnecessary travel during periods of intense squalls. Residents across Indiana are encouraged to monitor changing conditions and share local snowfall reports at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
