South Bend, Indiana — A strong lake-effect snow band is creating hazardous travel conditions across parts of the South Bend area this morning.
According to the National Weather Service Northern Indiana, areas west of U.S. Highway 31 are experiencing snowfall rates up to 2 inches per hour, with very low visibility under the heaviest band. Officials urged drivers to use extreme caution during the morning commute.
Snowfall rates are expected to taper after 8 a.m. EST, with the main lake-effect band ending by early afternoon. However, additional light snow is forecast to return tonight into Friday, with periodic lake-effect snow continuing into early next week, mainly across southwest Michigan but occasionally impacting northern Indiana.
Temperatures will remain cold, with highs today between 23 and 27 degrees and overnight lows in the teens. Colder air arrives over the weekend, with highs dropping into the teens and low 20s, and overnight lows falling into the single digits by Sunday night.
The National Weather Service warned that wind chill values could drop to around -10 degrees Sunday into Monday, increasing the risk of frostbite with prolonged exposure.
While daily snowfall amounts outside the main band are generally expected to remain around 1 to 2 inches, repeated rounds of snow combined with bitter cold could lead to ongoing slick roads and reduced visibility.
This alert is especially relevant for morning commuters, delivery drivers, students, and outdoor workers, as conditions may change rapidly under lake-effect snow bands.
