INDIANA — A prolonged period of lake-effect snow is bringing dangerous winter weather to several counties across northern Indiana, with warnings and advisories in effect through Thursday, according to the National Weather Service.
A Winter Storm Warning remains in effect for parts of northern Indiana, including Marshall County, where heavy lake-effect snow is expected to produce widespread travel hazards. Forecasters say Marshall County could see between 4 and 8 inches of snow, with the highest totals north of U.S. 30. Gusty north to northwest winds up to 35 mph are expected to cause blowing and drifting snow, particularly on east-west roadways.
Farther north and west, Starke County remains under a Winter Weather Advisory through noon Thursday. Snowfall totals of 3 to 6 inches are expected, especially along and north of U.S. 30, with blowing snow reducing visibility at times.
Additional Winter Weather Advisories are in effect for Elkhart County, Kosciusko County, Lake County, and Porter County. In Lake County, including the cities of Hammond, Merrillville, and Gary, strong winds near Lake Michigan may gust up to 50 mph, leading to blowing snow and slick road conditions. Snow accumulations there are expected to range from 1 to 4 inches, with higher amounts east of Interstate 65.
Porter County, including Valparaiso, Portage, and Chesterton, could see localized snowfall totals of 2 to 5 inches, especially in northeastern portions of the county. Blowing and drifting snow may worsen travel conditions, particularly on open roads.
The National Weather Service warns that whiteout conditions are possible at times, with visibility dropping below one-quarter mile. Roads, bridges, and overpasses are expected to become slick and hazardous, with the most severe impacts likely during the Wednesday evening and Thursday morning commutes.
Motorists are urged to delay travel if possible and use extreme caution if travel is necessary. Up-to-date road conditions in Indiana are available by calling 511 or visiting the state’s traffic information website.
