Fort Wayne, IN – Hazardous travel conditions are expected early Friday across far northeast Indiana as freezing rain develops near the Michigan border.
According to the National Weather Service Northern Indiana, a Winter Weather Advisory is in effect for portions of far northeast Indiana, as well as far northwest Ohio and south-central Michigan, due to a period of freezing rain expected overnight into Friday morning. Light ice accumulation could make roads and sidewalks slick during peak travel hours.
Forecasters say freezing rain is expected between 3 a.m. and noon Friday, with ice accumulations up to one-tenth of an inch possible in the advisory area. While ice amounts are expected to remain light, even small accumulations can significantly impact travel conditions.
Areas most likely to be affected include communities near the Michigan state line, with Hillsdale County, Michigan, highlighted as an area of particular concern. Drivers may encounter slippery roads, especially on bridges, overpasses, and untreated surfaces, while pedestrians could face icy sidewalks.
The National Weather Service urges residents to allow extra travel time, reduce speeds, and increase following distance when driving Friday morning. Those walking outdoors should use caution to avoid slips and falls.
Temperatures are expected to hover near freezing through the morning hours, allowing ice to persist until conditions gradually improve later in the day as temperatures rise and precipitation tapers off.
Travelers are encouraged to monitor updated forecasts and any additional advisories as conditions evolve overnight.
