Snow storm predictions: Indianapolis could see 6 to 12 inches, NWS meteorologist says
Tuesday’s temperatures reaching 50 degrees may seem like a glimmer of hope for warmer weather, but the latest forecast shows it’ll be immediately be followed by an approaching winter storm that is now forecasted to drop several inches of snow across Indianapolis.
The city is expected to see between 6 and 12 inches of snow from Wednesday through Thursday, while areas north of the city could see between 12 and 18 inches of snow, said National Weather Service Meteorologist Ted Funk.
A winter storm watch for Indianapolis was upgraded to a winter storm warning in effect from 7 a.m. Wednesday through 1 a.m. Friday.
The storm will begin with rain about midday on Wednesday in the city, followed by a wintry mix of sleet and freezing rain, and culminate in snow by late evening. Come dawn Thursday, the area will see “all snow,” meteorologists told IndyStar.
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Wind gusts reaching 20-25 mph throughout the more than 24-hour weather event will pair with the rain, sleet and snow. Power outages and tree damage pose the biggest risk with the storm.
Road conditions will deteriorate from northwest counties late Tuesday nightto the Indy Metro Wed afternoon...to the US-50 corridor Wednesday night. Prepare your vehicle emergency supply kit now: full tank of gas, water/snacks, shovel, cell phone/charger. #INwx pic.twitter.com/nMw0pYvj25
— NWS Indianapolis (@NWSIndianapolis) February 1, 2022
The National Weather Service on Tuesday morning said the storm could make travel "very difficult to impossible," particularly for the morning or evening commute. Meteorologists asked motorists to fill up their gas tanks and pack winter preparedness kits equipped with blankets, jumper cables, phone chargers, flashlights, food and water. They noted drivers should prepare to change travel plans in case of a road closure.
More: Why the coming snow and ice could be challenging for road crews -- and how to prepare
Meteorologists said it appears the city won’t see a day above freezing temperatures until next Tuesday, meaning any snow from the storm will stick around until then.
The latest forecasts for Central Indiana can be monitored at weather.gov/ind/
Contact Sarah Nelson at sarah.nelson@indystar.com or 317-503-7514.
This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Winter storm: Forecast predicts 6-12 inches of snow in Indianapolis
