Indiana – The cold cuts instantly this morning, stinging exposed skin within seconds and freezing breath in the air. Across central Indiana, the winter cold feels unforgiving, and Indianapolis sits squarely in the heart of it.
According to the National Weather Service in Indianapolis, an Extreme Cold Warning remains in effect through midday, with wind chills plunging as low as 20 to 25 degrees below zero. Actual temperatures hover below zero early, and even light winds make conditions dangerous for anyone outdoors. A Cold Weather Advisory follows tonight into early Thursday as bitter air lingers.
This level of cold creates real hazards. Frostbite can occur on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes. Vehicles may struggle to start, and any stranded motorists face serious risk. Drivers should limit travel when possible and carry emergency supplies, especially along I-65, I-70, and I-74 where exposure increases quickly during breakdowns.
The extreme cold ties into a broader national pattern. Nearly half of the Great Lakes are frozen, allowing Arctic air to pour south and sustain lake-effect snow downwind of the lakes. That same cold mass keeps temperatures locked well below normal across the Midwest while snow continues over parts of the Northern Plains.
Conditions slowly improve later today as winds ease slightly, though it stays dangerously cold. Daytime highs struggle to reach the mid-teens. Tonight remains frigid, with lows dipping below zero again before a modest rebound begins late Thursday.
By Friday and into the weekend, sunshine helps temperatures climb into the mid-teens and lower 20s, still cold but less severe. February brings hope for gradual moderation, though winter remains firmly in control.
Have you felt colder air than this before in Indianapolis? Share how you’re staying warm today.
Five Day Outlook for Indianapolis, Indiana
- Today: Increasing clouds, high near 16°F.
- Thursday: Partly sunny, high near 16°F.
- Friday: Partly sunny, high near 15°F.
- Saturday: Cold, high near 14°F.
- Sunday: Mostly sunny, high near 21°F
