Indianapolis, IN, January 22, 2026
A Winter Storm Watch has been announced for central Indiana, including Indianapolis, warning of hazardous conditions due to potential snow, sleet, and freezing rain starting this weekend. The National Weather Service forecasts snowfall accumulations ranging from 4 to 7 inches. Residents are advised to prepare for dangerous travel conditions and should monitor local forecasts for further updates.
Winter Storm Watch Issued for Central Indiana This Weekend
Indianapolis, IN – A Winter Storm Watch has been issued for central Indiana, including Indianapolis, effective from Saturday, January 24, 2026, at 10:00 AM EST until Sunday, January 25, 2026, at 7:00 PM EST. The National Weather Service (NWS) warns of potential hazardous winter conditions during this period.
Forecasted Conditions
According to the NWS, the storm is expected to bring a combination of snow, sleet, and freezing rain to the region. The heaviest snowfall is anticipated to occur between Saturday afternoon and Sunday evening, with accumulations ranging from 4 to 7 inches in parts of central and southern Indiana. Residents should prepare for slippery roads and reduced visibility, which may lead to dangerous travel conditions. The NWS advises the public to monitor local forecasts for updates and to exercise caution when traveling during this period.
Impacted Areas
The Winter Storm Watch encompasses several counties in central Indiana, including but not limited to:
- Boone
- Carroll
- Clay
- Clinton
- Delaware
- Fountain
- Hamilton
- Hancock
- Hendricks
- Henry
- Howard
- Johnson
- Madison
- Marion
- Montgomery
- Morgan
- Owen
- Parke
- Putnam
- Randolph
- Rush
- Shelby
- Tippecanoe
- Tipton
- Vermillion
- Vigo
- Warren
Residents in these areas are urged to stay informed about the latest weather updates and to plan accordingly for potential disruptions to daily activities.
Safety Precautions
In anticipation of the winter storm, the NWS recommends the following safety measures:
- Limit travel during the storm’s peak hours, especially on Saturday night and Sunday.
- Ensure vehicles are equipped with appropriate winter tires and emergency supplies.
- Keep extra blankets, flashlights, and batteries on hand in case of power outages.
- Stay indoors as much as possible during the storm to avoid exposure to hazardous conditions.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, residents should consult the National Weather Service’s official website or local news outlets.
Background
Winter storms are not uncommon in Indiana during the colder months. Historically, the state has experienced significant snowfall and ice events, which have led to travel disruptions and power outages. The NWS regularly monitors weather patterns and issues advisories to keep the public informed and safe during such events.
FAQ
What is a Winter Storm Watch?
A Winter Storm Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for a winter storm to develop. It indicates that a storm is possible, but its exact timing and severity are uncertain. Residents should stay alert and prepare for potential winter weather.
How much snow is expected?
Snowfall accumulations are expected to range from 4 to 7 inches in parts of central and southern Indiana during the storm’s duration.
Which areas are affected by the Winter Storm Watch?
The Winter Storm Watch includes several counties in central Indiana, such as Boone, Carroll, Clay, Clinton, Delaware, Fountain, Hamilton, Hancock, Hendricks, Henry, Howard, Johnson, Madison, Marion, Montgomery, Morgan, Owen, Parke, Putnam, Randolph, Rush, Shelby, Tippecanoe, Tipton, Vermillion, Vigo, and Warren.
What safety precautions should residents take?
Residents should limit travel during the storm’s peak hours, ensure vehicles are equipped with appropriate winter tires and emergency supplies, keep extra blankets, flashlights, and batteries on hand in case of power outages, and stay indoors as much as possible during the storm to avoid exposure to hazardous conditions.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Winter Storm Watch Issued | Effective from Saturday, January 24, 2026, at 10:00 AM EST until Sunday, January 25, 2026, at 7:00 PM EST. |
| Forecasted Snowfall | 4 to 7 inches in parts of central and southern Indiana. |
| Affected Areas | Central Indiana counties, including Boone, Carroll, Clay, Clinton, Delaware, Fountain, Hamilton, Hancock, Hendricks, Henry, Howard, Johnson, Madison, Marion, Montgomery, Morgan, Owen, Parke, Putnam, Randolph, Rush, Shelby, Tippecanoe, Tipton, Vermillion, Vigo, and Warren. |
| Safety Recommendations | Limit travel during peak storm hours, equip vehicles with winter tires and emergency supplies, keep extra blankets and flashlights on hand, and stay indoors as much as possible during the storm. |
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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.
