Indiana – Tires hiss on icy pavement and headlights reflect off glassy roads as winter asserts itself across the region this New Year’s morning. Light snow, freezing drizzle, and falling temperatures have combined to create slick travel conditions across much of Indiana and western Ohio.
According to the National Weather Service offices in Wilmington, Indianapolis, and Charleston, untreated roads, bridges, and overpasses are especially hazardous early today. Temperatures dropped into the teens and 20s overnight, allowing light snow and patchy freezing drizzle to freeze on contact. Several counties reported quick changes in road conditions before sunrise, catching early travelers off guard.
Across central and eastern Indiana, including Indianapolis, Carmel, Muncie, and Bloomington, slick spots developed on secondary roads and neighborhood streets. In Ohio, impacts stretch from Dayton and Columbus south through Cincinnati and into surrounding suburbs. Snow showers moved through quickly, but even light accumulations are enough to create trouble when pavement temperatures fall.
Motorists should plan extra travel time this morning and increase following distance. Braking distances are longer, and visibility can drop suddenly in passing snow showers. Bridges freeze first, and ramps along I-70, I-71, I-74, and I-75 are common trouble spots. For now, road crews continue treatment, but shaded areas may remain icy through mid-morning.
Conditions gradually improve later today as precipitation ends and traffic increases, but lingering moisture could refreeze after sunset. That raises renewed concerns for black ice heading into tonight, especially on less-traveled roads and sidewalks.
Winter weather remains an active player as 2026 begins. Another round of cold air keeps the region vulnerable to quick freeze-ups whenever moisture is present. Drivers are urged to stay alert, slow down, and avoid sudden maneuvers.
