Cold air bites exposed skin early this morning as frost coats windshields and pavement across central Indiana, creating slick patches before sunrise and slowing the first wave of New Year travel. The chill feels sharp, but change is already underway.
According to the National Weather Service in Indianapolis, temperatures remain below average today with highs near the freezing mark, followed by gradual warming through Saturday and Sunday. Dry conditions dominate, but cold mornings continue to raise concerns for black ice on untreated roads, bridges, and ramps.
Across Indiana, the pattern reflects a broader Midwest cold pool settling in behind a recent front. Indianapolis starts the day near 20 degrees with light winds, allowing frost to linger longer than usual. Side streets, parking lots, and shaded stretches of I-65 and I-70 may stay slick through mid-morning. Drivers should slow down and allow extra braking distance.
Saturday brings improving conditions. Clouds thin, sunshine increases, and afternoon temperatures climb into the mid-30s. Roads dry out during the day, but refreezing remains possible after sunset as lows dip back into the low 20s. Sunday continues the rebound with highs in the mid-30s and calmer travel conditions across Marion and surrounding counties.
The first full week of 2026 trends noticeably milder. Monday pushes close to 50 degrees, melting remaining snow piles and increasing runoff on roadways. That meltwater could refreeze at night, keeping winter hazards in play despite warmer afternoons. By Tuesday, highs reach the lower 50s with more clouds and a slight chance of rain late.
Plan extra time for early drives today and Saturday morning. Keep coats, gloves, and an ice scraper handy, and watch for sudden slick spots near sunrise.
Five-Day Weather Snapshot for Indianapolis, IN
- Today: Partly sunny, high near 32
- Saturday: Decreasing clouds, high near 35
- Sunday: Mostly sunny, high near 36
- Monday: Mostly sunny and warmer, high near 48
- Tuesday: Mostly cloudy, high near 53
