FORT WAYNE, Indiana – A powerful early-season winter storm is hammering northern Indiana, southwest Lower Michigan, and northwest Ohio today with heavy snow, low visibility, and hazardous travel along major corridors including I-69, I-80/I-90, I-94, and US 30. Snow is spreading across the region this morning and will intensify through tonight, creating dangerous conditions for holiday travelers.
According to the National Weather Service, the heaviest snowfall is expected from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m., when rates may exceed 1 inch per hour and visibility could drop to a quarter mile. Most areas are on track for 6 to 12 inches, with pockets of more than a foot possible near Lake Michigan. Lake-effect bands will continue into Sunday, keeping roads slick even after widespread snow ends early in the morning.
Communities including South Bend, La Porte, Goshen, Three Rivers, Angus, and Benton Harbor face the highest totals. Areas south of US 24 — including Lima, Van Wert, and portions of northwest Ohio — may see lower amounts due to a brief rain-snow mix.
Drivers should avoid non-essential travel through tonight, as plows may struggle to keep up with the fast-falling, heavy snow. Impacts will linger Sunday where lake-effect snow persists.
Warnings remain in effect through Sunday morning, with additional advisories possible.
