South Bend, Indiana – Arctic air is expected to remain firmly in place across northern Indiana from Jan. 24 through Jan. 30, bringing a prolonged stretch of below-normal temperatures and reinforcing persistent winter conditions across the region.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, northern Indiana falls within a roughly 70 percent probability zone for below-normal temperatures during the Jan. 24–30 period. Confidence is elevated that cold air will dominate with limited opportunities for meaningful moderation before the end of the month.
Across northern counties, including St. Joseph, Elkhart, LaPorte, and Steuben, daytime highs are expected to run well below seasonal averages, while overnight lows frequently dip into the teens and single digits. The sustained cold will allow snowpack and icy conditions to persist on roads such as Interstate 80/90, U.S. Route 20, and secondary highways, especially during overnight and early morning hours.
Closer to Lake Michigan, including South Bend and Michigan City, cold northwest flow may occasionally support lake-enhanced snow, further reinforcing winter travel challenges and reduced visibility at times. Inland areas, including Fort Wayne and the Interstate 69 corridor, are also expected to remain locked in below-normal temperatures throughout the Jan. 24–30 window.
The Indiana Department of Transportation urges drivers to remain cautious during early morning and nighttime travel, when refreezing is most likely. Residents are encouraged to take cold-weather precautions, including protecting exposed pipes, limiting prolonged outdoor exposure, and checking on vulnerable neighbors and pets.
The Arctic pattern shows little indication of breaking before the calendar turns, and additional cold-related advisories may be issued as confidence remains high in sustained below-normal temperatures across northern Indiana through Jan. 30.
