Indianapolis, January 16, 2026
Residents of Indianapolis are advised to prepare for light snowfall and plummeting temperatures as a weather system approaches central Indiana. Snow accumulation may reach up to an inch, with predictions of reduced visibility and caution urged for travelers. The frigid temperatures are expected to continue into the weekend, necessitating safety measures and preparedness while traveling. The National Weather Service emphasizes the importance of staying alert and avoiding crowding snowplows during these hazardous conditions.
Winter Weather Advisory for Indianapolis: Snowfall and Cold Temperatures Ahead
Prepare for light snowfall and falling temperatures in central Indiana this weekend.
Indianapolis, Indiana – As winter takes hold of central Indiana, residents should brace themselves for a swift-moving weather system set to bring light snowfall early Friday morning. Snow accumulations may range from half an inch to one inch, with higher amounts expected in northern counties. Additionally, late Friday afternoon into early evening could see further snow showers, giving rise to moderate to heavy snow squalls. Such rapidly changing conditions may lead to reduced visibility, urging travelers to approach the roads with caution, slow down, and allow extra time to reach their destinations.
The National Weather Service has advised residents to stay alert for evolving weather conditions and to avoid crowding snowplows to ensure safety on the roads. The current cold snap has already set temperatures noticeably low in Indianapolis, with a high of 27°F recorded on Thursday, January 15, 2026, while the low dipped to 15°F, with wind chills making it feel even colder—near zero or into the single digits.
Preparing for the Cold Weekend Ahead
Looking forward, a significant drop in temperatures is forecasted as a robust arctic front sweeps through central Indiana on Friday night. Saturday’s highs are expected to hover in the 20s, while nighttime lows could plunge into the single digits. Wind-chill values may potentially dip below zero between Saturday night and Tuesday morning, suggesting that residents should exercise extensive precautions during this severe winter weather spell.
Travel Advisory and Safety Measures
Travelers are strongly encouraged to remain vigilant during this winter weather, taking measures such as checking for updates and allowing for additional travel time. The National Weather Service has provided clear guidelines, emphasizing the importance of patience and the necessity of keeping a safe distance from snow removal equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the expected snowfall for central Indiana on Friday morning?
A quick-moving system is expected to bring light snowfall to central Indiana early Friday morning, with accumulations ranging from half an inch to one inch, and potentially higher amounts in northern counties. Additional snow showers are anticipated late Friday afternoon into the early evening, with brief moderate to heavy snow squalls possible. Travelers are advised to exercise caution, slow down, and allow extra time to reach their destinations. The National Weather Service recommends staying alert for rapidly changing conditions and to avoid crowding snowplows.
What were the temperatures in Indianapolis on Thursday, January 15, 2026?
Temperatures in Indianapolis on Thursday, January 15, 2026, were notably cold, with a high of 27°F and a low of 15°F. The wind chill made it feel even colder, with temperatures dropping to near zero or in the single digits.
What is the forecast for the upcoming weekend in central Indiana?
A significant drop in temperatures is anticipated on Friday night as a strong arctic front sweeps across central Indiana. Saturday highs are expected to remain in the 20s, with overnight lows likely to plunge to single digits. Wind-chill values could fall below zero from Saturday night through Tuesday morning.
What precautions should residents take during this period of severe winter weather?
Residents are advised to monitor weather updates closely and take necessary precautions during this period of severe winter weather. This includes staying alert for rapidly changing conditions, allowing extra time for travel, and avoiding crowding snowplows.
Key Features of the Upcoming Weather Event
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Snowfall Timing | Early Friday morning, with additional snow showers late Friday afternoon into early evening. |
| Snowfall Accumulation | Half an inch to one inch, with potential for higher amounts in northern counties. |
| Wind-Chill Values | Could fall below zero from Saturday night through Tuesday morning. |
| Temperature Forecast | Highs in the 20s on Saturday, with overnight lows in the single digits. |
| Travel Advisory | Residents are advised to exercise caution, slow down, and allow extra time to reach their destinations. Avoid crowding snowplows. |
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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.
