Lake-Effect Snow and Cold Grip Northwest Indiana, Travel Advisory in Effect

Northwest Indiana is bracing for significant lake-effect snow and bitterly cold temperatures this weekend and into Monday, with a Winter Weather Advisory in place for several counties. The National Weather Service warns of potentially hazardous travel conditions due to accumulating snowfall and strong winds.

Winter Weather Advisory Details

A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect from 1 a.m. EST Sunday through 1 p.m. EST Monday for Northern and Southern La Porte County, St. Joseph County in Indiana, and Cass and Berrien counties in Michigan. Total snowfall of 3 to 5 inches is expected, with localized higher amounts possible where persistent lake-effect bands develop.

Timing and Impacts

Snow will begin accumulating by 1 a.m. Sunday, with lake-effect bands intensifying Sunday night. This timing raises concerns for travel on heavily traveled corridors including I-94, the Indiana Toll Road, and U.S. 31. Blowing and drifting snow could reduce visibility and create uneven accumulations, especially in open areas near Lake Michigan.

Chicago Area Conditions

While the Chicago area will experience cooler conditions, the brunt of the snowfall will target northwest Indiana. Northeastern Illinois will witness some flurries, but significant accumulation is expected further south. Highs on Saturday are expected to reach the low-to-mid 30s, with winds making it feel significantly colder, dropping wind chills to 10-12 degrees.

Temperature and Wind Chill

Overnight low temperatures will drop into the low-to-mid 20s, with winds of 10 to 20 miles per hour pushing wind chills into the single digits.

Travel Recommendations

Drivers are advised to slow down, increase following distance, and check road conditions by calling 511 before heading out. Road crews will be monitoring bridges and overpasses, which are prone to freezing first. Snow showers may linger into midday Monday, and additional advisories could be issued if lake-effect bands persist.

Recent Lake-Effect Snow Event

A strong cold front moved through the region on January 14, 2026, bringing lake-effect snow.