South Bend, IN – A major winter storm is bearing down on northern Indiana this weekend, with snow totals expected to reach up to 14 inches near South Bend and Three Rivers by Sunday afternoon. Roads including US 31, US 20, and stretches of I-94 could become impassable as heavy snow, gusty winds, and lake-effect bands move in.
According to the National Weather Service in Northern Indiana, widespread system snow will begin early Saturday and intensify through Saturday night. By Sunday, snowfall transitions to lake-effect snow, especially in northwest Indiana snow belts, where wind gusts may reach up to 40 mph. Visibility may drop to near zero at times, particularly along I-69, US 6, and the Indiana Toll Road.
Snow totals will vary by region: areas north of US 24 are on track for 8–14 inches, while southern areas could see 4–9 inches, with some mixing of rain on Sunday adding uncertainty. The storm is expected to create dangerous driving conditions with blowing and drifting snow, slick pavement, and fast-changing visibility.
Residents should avoid unnecessary travel, charge phones, and pack emergency kits if on the road. Winter weather advisories remain in effect through Sunday, with additional alerts likely.
Five Day Forecast for South Bend, Indiana:
- Friday night: Mostly cloudy, low 17–23°F
- Saturday: Heavy snow, 3–6 inches by evening, high 31–33°F
- Saturday night: Continued snow, gusts to 40 mph, low 24–28°F
- Sunday: Lake-effect snow, windy, 2–4” more, high 34–39°F
- Monday: Partly cloudy, breezy, high 36°F
- Tuesday: Colder, chance of flurries, high 31°F
