FORT WAYNE, Ind. – A powerful early-season Winter Storm Warning has been issued for parts of northern Indiana and southwest Michigan, where up to a foot of snow may fall between late Sunday afternoon and Monday evening. The National Weather Service warns of near-whiteout conditions at times, especially along I-80, I-90, and U.S. 31, as intense lake-effect snow bands develop off Lake Michigan.
According to the Weather Service in Northern Indiana, snow showers will begin late today, intensifying rapidly after sunset. The heaviest accumulations are expected across La Porte, St. Joseph, and Marshall Counties in Indiana, extending into Berrien and Cass Counties in Michigan. Areas near South Bend and Valparaiso could see 6 to 12 inches, with isolated spots topping a foot where snow bands remain stationary.
Drivers should prepare for hazardous travel through Monday, with slick, snow-covered roads and visibility dropping to near zero during heavier bursts. The Monday morning and evening commutes are expected to be severely affected. Motorists are urged to avoid non-essential travel, keep an emergency kit in their vehicle, and maintain a full gas tank in case of delays.
Wind chills will plunge into the teens both Sunday and Monday nights, adding to the winter bite. Conditions should slowly improve Tuesday as snow tapers off, but temperatures will stay well below normal through Veterans Day.
By midweek, calmer skies and highs in the 40s will offer a brief late-fall reprieve before another cold surge looms closer to next weekend.
Five-Day Forecast for Fort Wayne, IN:
Mon: 34/23 – Snow showers likely; slick roads and gusty winds.
Tue: 38/32 – Mostly cloudy; chilly and breezy.
Wed: 46/31 – Sunny and calm; gradual warm-up.
Thu: 49/33 – Partly cloudy; light breeze.
Fri: 61/38 – Mild and dry; pleasant late-fall day.
