Two Rounds of Snow Forecasted, Followed by Near-Record Cold: Weather Impact Alert

Central Indiana is preparing for two rounds of snowfall followed by dangerously cold temperatures expected to challenge the area through Monday. The National Weather Service has issued continuous Weather Impact Alerts spanning four days due to these conditions.

The first snowfall is forecast to begin Thursday night and continue into Friday morning. Dry air at lower levels has slightly lowered snowfall expectations, but Indianapolis could still see 1 to 2 inches, with 2 to 4 inches expected south from Terre Haute to Bloomington. Some isolated areas may experience over 5 inches.

Snow showers will taper off by Friday noon, but morning commutes are likely to remain hazardous. Afternoon temperatures will peak in the low- to mid-30s, making Friday the warmest and least active day during this weather event.

A second wave of snow is expected to move in on Saturday midday and continue through the late evening. This round will bring colder temperatures during the snowfall and plunge into bitter cold afterward, reducing the effectiveness of road treatments. Snow accumulations between 2 and 4 inches are predicted, with some areas possibly receiving 5 to 6 inches.

Sunday will be extremely cold as fresh snow cover and clearing skies allow temperatures to drop below zero. Highs are forecast not to exceed around 10 degrees, with wind chills near 20 degrees below zero during the morning hours.

On Monday, morning lows could fall even lower due to lighter winds and clearer skies. However, wind chill values are expected to be less severe than Sunday’s, and temperatures should rise into the 20s by afternoon thanks to south winds.

Key points of the weather outlook:
1. Thursday night-Friday morning: 1-2 inches snow in Indianapolis, up to 4 inches southward.
2. Friday afternoon: Highs in the low to mid-30s, minimal snow.
3. Saturday: Another 2-6 inches of snow with colder temps.
4. Sunday: Morning temps below zero, highs near 10 degrees, wind chills near -20.
5. Monday: Cold start below zero, warming into the 20s.

After Monday, temperatures will gradually warm toward seasonal norms, with 30s and 40s expected later in the week. Rain showers may arrive by midweek as the forecast returns to a milder pattern.

Residents are advised to prepare for difficult travel conditions and significant cold over the coming days as Central Indiana faces this impactful winter event.