Plymouth, Indiana – Drivers in northern Indiana and nearby southwest Michigan should prepare for slick roads and sharply reduced visibility beginning early Wednesday as lake effect snow ramps up and persists into Thursday afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service in Northern Indiana, a Winter Weather Advisory is in effect from early Wednesday through Thursday afternoon for Marshall and Starke counties in Indiana, along with Cass County in southwest Michigan. Snow accumulations of 3 to 6 inches are expected across Marshall and Starke counties, while western portions of Cass County could see up to 6 inches where lake effect bands persist the longest. Northwest winds gusting up to 35 mph will cause blowing snow and rapidly changing road conditions.
Communities including Plymouth, Knox, North Judson, and Culver in Indiana, along with areas near Cassopolis and Dowagiac in Michigan, may experience periods where visibility drops to one-quarter mile or less during heavier snow bands. Travel impacts are expected to increase during the Wednesday evening commute as snow intensifies and continues overnight into Thursday morning.
Lake effect snow can vary significantly over short distances, with heavy bursts occurring just miles away from dry pavement. Bridges and overpasses are expected to become slick first, increasing the risk of accidents.
Motorists are urged to slow down, allow extra travel time, and check road conditions before heading out. Hazardous travel is expected to continue into Thursday afternoon before snow gradually tapers, though slick spots may linger beyond the advisory period.
