Indianapolis, Indiana – A broad mid-February thaw is set to take hold across the Heartland beginning Thursday, when temperatures rise above freezing and remain milder through the Feb 13–19 period, setting up snowmelt, wet roads, and shifting travel conditions across the region.
According to the National Weather Service and NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, warmer air pushing into the central U.S. late Wednesday night will lift daytime highs above 32 degrees across Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio. Temperatures are expected to trend above seasonal averages for several consecutive days, marking a clear break from recent winter cold.
In Illinois and Indiana, including Chicago, Peoria, Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, and Lafayette, highs reaching the mid to upper 30s will accelerate melting of existing snowpack. Slushy conditions and standing water are likely on secondary roads and untreated surfaces, particularly along I-80, I-90, I-65, and I-70. Bridges and overpasses may refreeze after sunset as temperatures dip back toward freezing.
Across Ohio, including Columbus, Dayton, Cincinnati, Toledo, and Cleveland, the warmer pattern increases the chance for rain or a rain-snow mix as daytime temperatures hover just above freezing. The Ohio Department of Transportation reports that major corridors such as I-70, I-71, I-75, and I-80 could see slick spots during the morning and evening commute windows.
The milder pattern is expected to persist into early next week. Additional advisories or short-term alerts may be issued as precipitation timing becomes clearer and refreeze risks continue across parts of the Heartland.
