South Bend, Ind. – Wind-driven lake-effect rain showers will linger across northern Indiana through Thursday before colder, clearer air sets the stage for widespread frost by late Thursday night. The National Weather Service says areas downwind of Lake Michigan could pick up between a half inch and one inch of rainfall before conditions finally dry out.
According to the National Weather Service office in Northern Indiana, the most persistent rain bands will affect LaPorte, St. Joseph, and Elkhart counties through this evening, with occasional gusts over 25 mph making for raw, unsettled conditions. Farther south toward Fort Wayne and Marion, showers will be lighter and more scattered.
As the system exits Thursday night, skies will clear from west to east, allowing temperatures to fall into the mid-30s. Forecasters expect patchy frost formation, especially south of U.S. 30 where clouds will thin out sooner. Residents should protect sensitive plants, while motorists are advised to use caution on slick, leaf-covered roads.
Friday will bring a return to sunshine and calmer winds, though it will remain seasonably cool heading into the weekend.
