Indiana wakes under a brutal cold that bites instantly and lingers across central neighborhoods this morning. Streetlights glow over frozen pavement, car engines strain, and the wind cuts hard through layers. This is the kind of cold that forces short walks and quick decisions.
According to the National Weather Service in Indianapolis, an Extreme Cold Warning remains in effect until 9 a.m. for all of central Indiana. Wind chills have plunged as low as 20 degrees below zero around Indianapolis, creating a life-threatening risk of frostbite in minutes. A Cold Weather Advisory follows later today, extending the threat through Wednesday morning.
Air temperatures hovered near 5 degrees early, while steady winds pushed the cold deeper into bones. Travel remains possible, but drivers should expect slick patches where moisture froze before sunrise. Bridges and untreated roads remain the biggest concern. Limit outdoor exposure, dress in layers, and ensure pets stay indoors.
Conditions improve slightly later today, though the cold never fully releases. Clouds increase, and highs struggle to reach the upper teens. Tonight turns dangerous again as temperatures drop below zero, with wind chills falling back into the teens below zero. Any melting during the day will refreeze quickly after sunset.
Midweek stays cold. Wednesday brings limited sunshine and highs near the upper teens, followed by another frigid night with lows around two below zero. Thursday remains cold, with highs in the low teens and lighter winds offering little comfort.
By Friday, the pattern begins to ease. Sunshine returns, but temperatures stay below normal with highs near 12. The weekend offers gradual improvement, with highs climbing into the teens and low 20s. Longer-range outlooks suggest moderation early next week, though winter keeps control for now.
Plan errands carefully, avoid prolonged exposure, and check on vulnerable neighbors.
Five-Day Outlook for Indianapolis, Indiana
• Today: Increasing clouds, high near 19
• Wednesday: Mostly sunny, high near 17
• Thursday: Cold, high near 14
• Friday: Partly sunny, high near 12
• Saturday: Partly sunny, high near 15
