Snowfall in Central Indiana reached significant levels on Saturday as a winter storm swept through the region, accumulating at rates of up to an inch per hour. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), snowfall is expected to taper off in the evening after a day filled with hazardous driving conditions.
As of 6:30 p.m., Fishers and Brownsburg recorded approximately 5.5 inches of snow, while Franklin saw around 5 inches. Downtown Indianapolis measured 3.5 inches by 5:10 p.m. The NWS indicated that an additional inch of snow could fall throughout the evening.
Temperatures plummeted to 12 degrees Fahrenheit, compounded by a 14 mph wind that made it feel as cold as -11 degrees. The inclement weather led to treacherous driving conditions, with the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department reporting 111 accidents in Indianapolis by 5:30 p.m. The conditions prompted closures across various local venues. The Carmel Christkindlmarkt announced it would close at 7 p.m. on Saturday, with a closure planned for Sunday as well. Several churches opted to cancel Sunday services, and the Indianapolis Public Library system temporarily closed its doors at 2 p.m. due to the weather.
The NWS has issued a winter storm warning that remains in effect until midnight Saturday. Meteorologist Greg Melo noted that Central Indiana has experienced multiple rounds of snow this season, largely due to a series of low-pressure systems that create precipitation followed by high-pressure systems that bring calmer conditions. While it’s too soon to predict the overall snowiness of the winter, Melo characterized this winter as starting off quite actively.
Looking ahead, the immediate concern for residents is not just the snowfall but the extreme cold and wind chills expected overnight. Melo highlighted that conditions would remain bitterly cold into early Monday morning. A forecast update emphasized that Saturday night’s snow would likely continue before a shift to drier weather.
For those venturing out, the forecast offers a mixed bag following the storm:
- Saturday night: Snow likely, primarily before 7 p.m., with cloudy skies and a low around -1. Wind chill values could drop to -15.
- Sunday: A cold, sunny day with temperatures only reaching 9 degrees, and wind chill values as low as -17.
- Monday: Mostly sunny with a high of 24, increasing to 35 degrees by Tuesday.
- Midweek: Forecasts show temperatures rising and rain becoming likely, particularly on Thursday.
Residents are advised to stay updated on travel conditions and weather alerts through local resources. Numerous platforms provide information about ongoing road conditions, closures, and safety tips amid winter weather advisories. Those needing assistance with power outages or hazardous road conditions can contact local utility services or the Mayor’s Action Center for prompt support.
