South Bend, Indiana – Drivers across northern Indiana and southwest Michigan face slick highways and sudden whiteouts this morning as lake effect snow continues to pile up, threatening the Monday commute within the next few hours. Gusts reaching 30 mph are pushing snow across open roads, sharply reducing visibility on stretches of I-94, the Indiana Toll Road, and U.S. 31.
According to the National Weather Service in Northern Indiana, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect until 1 p.m. EST Monday, with an additional 3 to 5 inches of accumulation expected in Northern and Southern La Porte counties, St. Joseph County in Indiana, Cass County in Michigan, and Berrien County. Blowing and drifting snow will intensify through early Monday morning as northwest winds strengthen off Lake Michigan.
Road crews in La Porte and Berrien counties continue treating major corridors, but rural and secondary roads are becoming snow-covered. Visibility may drop below a half-mile in bursts of heavier snow, especially near the Lake Michigan shoreline communities of Michigan City, New Buffalo and St. Joseph, Michigan.
Drivers should slow down, allow extra stopping distance and avoid unnecessary travel during the Monday morning drive. Check 511 for real-time road updates in Indiana and Michigan before heading out.
Snow showers gradually weaken after midday Monday, but slick spots may linger into the afternoon. Additional advisories could be issued if bands persist along the lake shore.
