Indiana residents, get ready for a messy and dangerous midweek storm. A mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain is expected to move in on Wednesday afternoon, creating treacherous road conditions, especially in areas north of I-70. The evening commute could be a complete disaster, with icy roads, reduced visibility, and potential power outages due to ice buildup.
Winter Weather Advisory in Effect
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory from 1 PM Wednesday through 4 AM Thursday for central and northern Indiana, including Indianapolis, Lafayette, Muncie, and Fort Wayne. This means drivers should expect difficult travel conditions, especially as temperatures drop and roads become slick.
How Much Snow and Ice Are We Talking About?
This storm is packing a punch with both snow and ice, making it even more dangerous.
- When It Starts: Snow and freezing rain will begin by late Wednesday morning and continue through the night.
- Where It Hits Hardest: North of I-70 will see the worst conditions, with a mix of snow, sleet, and ice. South of I-70, it will mainly be cold rain.
- Snowfall Totals: Expect up to 3 inches of snow, especially in northern Indiana.
- Ice Accumulation: Areas between Indianapolis and Lafayette could see up to a quarter-inch of ice, which could snap tree branches and cause power outages.
Driving Could Be a Nightmare—Here’s What to Expect
If you have to drive Wednesday afternoon or evening, prepare for slick, icy roads and poor visibility. Bridges and overpasses will freeze first, creating unexpected slippery spots. The Wednesday evening rush hour will likely be the worst part of this storm, with conditions deteriorating quickly as temperatures drop.
If you can, stay home and avoid travel. If you must be on the road, drive slowly, leave extra space between cars, and keep an emergency kit in your vehicle in case you get stuck.
How to Prepare for This Storm
Here’s what you should do before the worst of the weather hits:
- Check the Forecast: Stay updated with alerts from the National Weather Service and local news stations.
- Stock Up at Home: Get food, water, and essentials in case roads become impassable.
- Prepare Your Car: Keep blankets, flashlights, snacks, and a phone charger in your vehicle in case you get stranded.
- Charge Up: Power outages are possible, so make sure your phones, flashlights, and backup batteries are fully charged.
And It’s Not Over Yet…
Just as this storm moves out, another winter system may hit later this week, bringing more snow and possibly more ice. Stay alert for further updates!