Valparaiso, IN – Heavy lake effect snow continues to blanket northwest Indiana Monday, leading to hazardous driving conditions and a Winter Storm Warning in effect through 6 p.m. CST, according to the National Weather Service in Chicago.
The warning includes Lake and Porter counties, covering communities such as Gary, Hammond, Merrillville, Portage, Chesterton, and Valparaiso. Forecasters expect total accumulations of 6 to 12 inches, with locally higher amounts possible near Lake Michigan.
Snowfall rates may exceed 2 inches per hour, creating near-whiteout conditions that could cripple travel across major routes, including Interstates 80, 90, and 94. In addition, northerly winds over 30 mph will cause blowing snow and sharply reduced visibility, particularly along the shoreline.
The National Weather Service notes that a brief lull in snowfall is possible this morning, but heavy snow is expected to redevelop by afternoon, worsening travel again during the evening commute.
Drivers are urged to delay all non-essential travel, and anyone who must be on the road should carry emergency supplies such as food, water, and blankets.
Conditions are expected to improve later tonight as snow bands shift eastward, but slick roads and drifting snow will likely persist into Tuesday morning.
