Gary, Indiana – Drivers across northwest Indiana are facing rapidly deteriorating travel conditions as intense lake effect snow targets the I-80 and I-94 corridors near Gary and eastward toward Valparaiso. Blowing snow and brief whiteout conditions are developing this afternoon and are expected to persist through early Thursday, creating a high risk for spin-outs, stalled vehicles, and sudden road closures.
According to the National Weather Service office in Chicago, strong northwest winds gusting up to 40 mph are driving narrow but intense snow bands off Lake Michigan into Lake and Porter counties. The heaviest impacts are expected along I-80, I-90, and I-94, where visibility may drop below a quarter mile at times, especially this evening and overnight.
Indiana State Police and INDOT crews are urging drivers to avoid non-essential travel east of Gary, where conditions can change rapidly within minutes. Snow-covered lanes, drifting, and partially blocked roadways are likely, particularly near interchanges and open stretches of highway. Motorists who must travel are advised to slow down, leave extra stopping distance, and avoid crowding snowplows.
Cold air pouring into the region will also push wind chills near zero overnight, raising concerns for stranded motorists. Additional lake effect bands could redevelop again early Thursday before winds gradually ease. Weather advisories remain in effect, and more travel alerts may be issued if snow bands intensify.
