INDIANA — Although March marks the beginning of meteorological spring, historical weather records show that measurable snowfall remains possible across Indiana during the month.
Long-term climate data collected by the National Weather Service and the National Centers for Environmental Information indicates that several Indiana cities still average measurable snowfall in March.
Typical averages vary by location but generally range from about 1 to 3 inches statewide. Indianapolis averages around 2 inches of snow in March, while northern cities such as South Bend and Fort Wayne often average closer to 3 inches due to their proximity to Lake Michigan and colder regional temperatures. Southern parts of the state, including Evansville, usually see around 1 inch or less on average.
Snowfall during March tends to decrease as the month progresses. Early March often still experiences winter-like weather patterns, while late March typically brings warmer temperatures that limit snow accumulation. However, cold air masses can still move into the Midwest during the month, allowing precipitation to fall as snow if temperatures are low enough.
Historical storms demonstrate that significant snow events can occur even late in the season. For example, the March 2008 Midwest snowstorm brought more than a foot of snow to parts of northern Indiana and caused widespread travel disruptions. Other March storms have periodically produced several inches of accumulation across the state.
Indiana’s location in the central Midwest allows cold northern air and moisture from developing storm systems to occasionally combine in early spring. Because of this, while snowfall becomes less frequent as spring approaches, measurable snow in March remains a normal and historically documented possibility in Indiana.
