South Bend, Indiana – A blast of arctic air is expected to settle over northern Indiana late this week, bringing subzero overnight temperatures, persistent snow showers, and hazardous travel conditions through early next week. Overnight lows are expected to dip near 2 degrees below zero, while daytime highs struggle to climb out of the single digits.
According to the National Weather Service, the coldest conditions are expected from Saturday through Tuesday as a polar air mass locks in across the Great Lakes. Periodic snow showers are likely, especially in areas closer to Lake Michigan, while gusty northwest winds will drive wind chill values well below zero during overnight and early morning hours.
Northern counties including St. Joseph, Elkhart, LaPorte, and Porter counties face the greatest impacts. Lake-effect snow showers could reduce visibility at times and create slick conditions on Interstate 80, Interstate 90, U.S. 20, and secondary roads. Even light accumulations combined with bitter cold could lead to icy stretches, particularly during nighttime travel.
Indiana emergency management officials urge residents to limit unnecessary travel during snow showers, dress in layers, and ensure vehicles are winter-ready. Homeowners should protect exposed pipes, and drivers are advised to carry winter emergency kits in case of breakdowns.
The deep freeze is expected to persist through Tuesday, with additional advisories or snow-related alerts possible as conditions evolve.
