Indianapolis, Indiana – Crisp air bit early Monday as frozen pavement glistened under streetlights, a reminder winter has officially arrived. Temperatures hovered in the upper 20s before sunrise, creating patchy slick spots on untreated roads and bridges. While sunshine breaks through later today, this calm start masks a fast-changing pattern that could affect Christmas travel plans by midweek.
According to the National Weather Service in Indianapolis, temperatures rebound into the upper 40s this afternoon with light winds, limiting additional icing. Attention then turns to tonight and Tuesday, when rain becomes more likely as warmer air pushes in. Lows stay well above freezing, but lingering moisture could still create early-morning slick areas where cold pavement holds on.
Across central Indiana, including Marion, Hamilton, and Hendricks counties, rain chances increase Tuesday into Wednesday as a broader system crosses the Midwest. Wet roads are expected during peak travel hours, especially on I-65, I-70, and I-74. While snow is not expected in Indianapolis, meteorologists are watching the colder air to the north for any late-season shifts closer to the rain-snow line.
To be fair, temperatures trend mild for late December. Highs climb into the mid-50s Tuesday and near the mid-60s by Christmas Day. That warm-up raises a different concern: flash freezing later this week if temperatures fall again after rain. Drivers should plan extra time, watch shaded overpasses, and keep winter kits in vehicles.
Conditions remain unsettled into Thursday, with another round of rain possible. Stay alert for updated advisories as Christmas travel ramps up. How are road conditions where you are this morning?
Five-Day Weather Outlook for Indianapolis, Indiana
Monday: Partly sunny. High near 49.
Tuesday: Morning fog, then brighter. High near 56.
Wednesday: Mostly cloudy with rain chances. High near 55.
Christmas Day: Mostly cloudy and mild. High near 63.
Friday: Partly sunny and warm for December. High near 66.
