Gary, Indiana – Communities along the Illinois–Indiana border could face renewed winter travel disruptions as a late-January weather pattern increases the likelihood of accumulating snow across the southern Lake Michigan region.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, the Illinois–Indiana border area is included in a slight risk for heavy snow from Saturday through the following Friday, signaling a higher chance for one or more organized winter systems impacting the region. Cold air is expected to remain firmly in place, setting the stage for snow rather than rain.
In northwest Indiana, including Gary, Hammond, and East Chicago, temperatures trending below normal support snow with any passing systems. That could lead to slick conditions along Interstates 80, 90, and 94, as well as delays on local roads during heavier snowfall and peak commute times.
Across the border in northeastern Illinois, including areas near Calumet City and south suburban Cook County, similar impacts are possible. Farther east, communities such as Valparaiso and Porter County may also see lake-enhanced snow at times, which can quickly reduce visibility and worsen travel conditions near Lake Michigan.
Indiana DOT and the Illinois Department of Transportation urge residents to monitor road conditions closely, allow extra travel time, and keep vehicles stocked with winter emergency supplies. With colder air expected to persist, snow that falls is likely to linger between systems.
More detailed timing and potential winter weather advisories are expected as the late-January window approaches, with clearer impacts becoming available by early next week.
