South Bend, Indiana – Much colder air moving into the region tonight will bring dangerous wind chills and periods of lake-effect snow, prompting a Cold Weather Advisory across parts of northern Indiana and neighboring states.
According to the National Weather Service Northern Indiana, strong winds this evening will usher in sharply colder conditions, with overnight lows falling into the single digits and teens. When combined with gusty winds, wind chills as low as 15 degrees below zero are expected late tonight into early Saturday morning.
A Cold Weather Advisory is in effect for portions of northwest Ohio and south-central Lower Michigan, while cold and windy conditions will be felt across all of northern Indiana. Forecasters warn that hypothermia is possible for anyone outdoors without adequate protection.
In addition to the cold, lake-effect snow showers are expected to develop tonight and continue into Saturday, especially near Lake Michigan. Snow accumulations of 1 to 3 inches are forecast, with locally higher amounts possible where lake-effect bands persist.
Travel impacts are most likely along major corridors including Interstate 80, Interstate 90, Interstate 69, Interstate 94, and U.S. Route 6, where snow-covered roads, reduced visibility, and blowing snow may occur. Conditions can change rapidly over short distances during lake-effect events.
Saturday will remain cold, with highs generally in the teens to low 20s, while lake-effect snow gradually diminishes later in the day. Saturday night lows are expected to fall back into the single digits.
Residents are urged to dress in layers, limit time outdoors, and ensure pets are protected from the cold. Drivers should allow extra travel time, slow down during snow showers, and watch for slick spots on bridges and overpasses.
A gradual moderation in temperatures is expected early next week, but winter conditions will remain in place through the weekend.
The National Weather Service advises monitoring updates at weather.gov/iwx for the latest advisories, snowfall trends, and wind chill information.
