South Bend, Indiana – Another surge of Arctic air is expected to roll back into Michiana during the first full week of February, bringing a renewed stretch of bitter cold, dangerous wind chills, and fewer chances for widespread snowstorms across northern Indiana and southwest Michigan.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, temperatures across the Great Lakes region are favored to run well below normal from Friday through the following Thursday as strong Arctic high pressure settles over the eastern half of the country. During the same period, precipitation probabilities lean below average, signaling a colder but generally drier pattern.
In the Michiana region, including South Bend, Elkhart, Mishawaka, and Niles, overnight lows could dip into the single digits or below zero at times, especially during the early-morning hours. Daytime highs may struggle to climb out of the teens during the coldest stretch. Gusty northwest winds will drive wind chills below zero, creating hazardous conditions for anyone spending extended time outdoors.
Despite the deep cold, the dominant Arctic setup favors dry air, limiting the potential for major snowstorms. Lake-effect snow showers off Lake Michigan remain possible, particularly in Berrien and LaPorte counties, but overall snow chances are trending below normal. Any snow that does develop is more likely to be light and localized rather than a widespread event.
Residents are urged to prepare for prolonged cold by protecting exposed pipes, checking heating systems, and limiting outdoor exposure during the coldest periods. Confidence is increasing in the cold pattern through early February, with additional advisories possible if conditions intensify or lake-effect activity increases.
