INDIANAPOLIS — A significant winter storm is expected to impact Indianapolis beginning late Saturday, followed by a prolonged stretch of dangerously cold temperatures that could last through much of next week.
The National Weather Service in Indianapolis said snow is expected to begin around 7 p.m. Saturday, with the heaviest snowfall occurring overnight into Sunday afternoon. Forecasters now have high confidence that central Indiana, including Indianapolis, will receive 6 to 9 inches of snow, with locally higher totals possible in heavier snow bands. Areas south of the city could see up to 10 to 12 inches.
Snowfall rates early Sunday morning may reach 1 inch per hour, creating hazardous travel conditions. Officials warned that roads could become impassable at times Sunday, particularly during the morning and early afternoon. A Winter Storm Warning is in effect for much of central Indiana through Sunday.
In addition to snow, dangerous cold is expected to persist well into next week. A Cold Weather Advisory remains in effect through noon Saturday, with wind chills as low as -10 to -15 degrees. Even colder air is forecast to arrive behind the storm.
Minimum wind chills early next week are expected to drop into the -10 to -17 degree range, especially Monday and Tuesday mornings. Meteorologists said there is a medium to high chance of hard freezes each night, increasing risks to people, pets, plants and plumbing.
The National Weather Service urged residents to complete travel and supply preparations before Saturday evening, limit unnecessary travel during the storm, and dress in layers when outdoors. Residents are also advised to protect exposed pipes, bring pets indoors and check on vulnerable neighbors.
Snow is expected to taper off Sunday evening, but cold temperatures will prevent rapid melting, allowing slick conditions to persist into the workweek.
Forecasters emphasized that confidence is high this will be one of the most impactful winter events of the season for Indianapolis, combining heavy snow with an extended period of bitter cold.
