A band of moderate to heavy lake-effect snow is expected to move into Northwest Indiana tonight, creating hazardous travel conditions along major highways.
According to the National Weather Service Northern Indiana, lake-effect snow will intensify and expand this evening as colder air moves across Lake Michigan. Snowfall amounts of 2 to 4 inches are likely, with locally higher totals possible where the most persistent snow band sets up.
Forecasters emphasize a sharp cutoff in snowfall totals, meaning some locations may see only minor accumulations while nearby communities experience significantly heavier snow. The greatest impacts are expected in La Porte County, Indiana, with portions of Berrien County, Michigan also affected.
A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect from 9 p.m. Friday through 6 a.m. Saturday for La Porte County. Within the strongest lake-effect band, snowfall rates may briefly exceed 1 inch per hour, leading to rapid accumulation on untreated roads.
Travel will be most hazardous tonight through Saturday morning, particularly along and near the Interstate 90 and Interstate 94 corridors, where slick, snow-covered roads and reduced visibility are expected. Motorists may encounter rapidly changing conditions over short distances as they pass in and out of the snow band.
Areas closest to Lake Michigan, including Michigan City, Valparaiso, and communities near the Indiana Dunes, are most likely to see the highest totals. Locations farther inland may see lighter accumulations or little snow at all due to the narrow nature of lake-effect bands.
Drivers are urged to slow down, increase following distance, and allow extra travel time, especially during overnight and early morning hours. Even brief bursts of heavy snow can sharply reduce visibility and traction.
Conditions are expected to gradually improve later Saturday as the lake-effect band weakens and shifts. Residents should continue monitoring updates from the National Weather Service for changes in snowfall placement and intensity.
