Indianapolis, January 30, 2026
Indianapolis is currently facing severe cold conditions with temperatures plummeting to -11°F. The ongoing winter storm has led to temporary business closures and warnings for hazardous travel as communities brace for continued freezing temperatures and wind chills reaching -28°F. Residents are advised to stay safe and monitor weather updates while supporting local businesses during this challenging time.
Indianapolis Faces Ongoing Frigid Temperatures and Winter Storm Aftermath
Indianapolis, Indiana – As of January 30, 2026, Indianapolis is enduring a prolonged period of frigid temperatures, with current conditions at -11°F (-24°C). The National Weather Service forecasts that temperatures will remain below freezing throughout the day, with a high of 12°F (-11°C) and a low of 7°F (-14°C). Wind chills are expected to make it feel even colder, with values reaching -28°F (-33°C).
Impact on Local Businesses
The severe weather has significantly affected local businesses. Many establishments have been forced to close temporarily to ensure the safety of their staff and customers. This has led to a noticeable decline in customer foot traffic, making the end of January particularly challenging for independent restaurants, shops, and other entrepreneurs. Community support is crucial during this period to help these businesses recover lost profits.
Winter Storm Watch and Warning
Prior to the current cold snap, a Winter Storm Watch was issued for central and southern Indiana on January 22, 2026, indicating the potential for heavy snow accumulations between 4 and 7 inches. This was followed by a Winter Storm Warning on January 23, 2026, for portions of central, east central, south central, southeast, southwest, and west central Indiana, forecasting total snow accumulations between 5 and 7 inches.
Nationwide Winter Storm
The severe weather in Indianapolis is part of a larger winter storm that impacted much of the United States over the weekend. This storm prompted at least 14 states and Washington, D.C., to declare a state of emergency. Stretching over 2,000 miles from New Mexico to Maine, the storm brought severe snow, ice, and freezing temperatures, leading to widespread power outages and hazardous travel conditions.
Safety Precautions
Residents are advised to stay informed about weather updates and exercise caution when traveling. The National Weather Service recommends monitoring the latest forecasts and considering delaying travel if possible. If travel is necessary, it’s important to drive with extreme caution and consider carrying a winter storm kit, including items such as tire chains, booster cables, a flashlight, a shovel, blankets, extra clothing, water, and a first aid kit.
Looking Ahead
While the current cold temperatures are expected to persist, a slightly warmer start to February is anticipated. However, residents should remain vigilant and prepared for potential fluctuations in weather conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the current temperature in Indianapolis?
The current temperature in Indianapolis is -11°F (-24°C), with wind chills making it feel even colder.
How long is the cold weather expected to last?
The frigid temperatures are expected to persist throughout the day, with a high of 12°F (-11°C) and a low of 7°F (-14°C). Wind chills are expected to make it feel even colder, with values reaching -28°F (-33°C).
How has the winter storm affected local businesses?
Many local businesses have been forced to close temporarily to ensure the safety of their staff and customers, leading to a noticeable decline in customer foot traffic and making the end of January particularly challenging for independent establishments.
What precautions should residents take during this cold weather?
Residents are advised to stay informed about weather updates, exercise caution when traveling, and consider delaying travel if possible. If travel is necessary, it’s important to drive with extreme caution and consider carrying a winter storm kit, including items such as tire chains, booster cables, a flashlight, a shovel, blankets, extra clothing, water, and a first aid kit.
Is the cold weather part of a larger storm system?
Yes, the severe weather in Indianapolis is part of a larger winter storm that impacted much of the United States over the weekend, prompting at least 14 states and Washington, D.C., to declare a state of emergency.
Key Features of the Winter Weather in Indianapolis
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Temperature | -11°F (-24°C) |
| Wind Chill | -28°F (-33°C) |
| Forecasted High | 12°F (-11°C) |
| Forecasted Low | 7°F (-14°C) |
| Impact on Local Businesses | Temporary closures and decreased customer foot traffic |
| Winter Storm Watch Issued | January 22, 2026 |
| Winter Storm Warning Issued | January 23, 2026 |
| Nationwide Impact | At least 14 states and Washington, D.C., declared a state of emergency |
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Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
