The arrival of the first snowfall of the season has been marked by a significant weather event impacting travel in Michigan and Indiana. The National Weather Service has issued various warnings and advisories as lake effect snow is anticipated to develop.
Winter Storm Warning Issued
A Winter Storm Warning is in effect for several counties:
- Berrien County, Michigan
- LaPorte County, Indiana
- St. Joseph County, Indiana
- Starke County, Indiana
- Marshall County, Indiana
This warning is active from 11 a.m. Sunday until 7 p.m. Monday. Meanwhile, a Winter Weather Advisory is issued for:
- Cass County, Michigan
- Elkhart County, Indiana
- Kosciusko County, Indiana
- Pulaski County, Indiana
- Fulton County, Indiana
The advisory will be in place from 4 p.m. Sunday until 11 p.m. Monday.
Lake Effect Snow Forecast
Starting Sunday morning, a band of lake effect snow is expected to develop, fueled by moisture from Lake Superior. Heavy snowfall rates are likely as the band becomes established, particularly Sunday afternoon and evening. Conditions are predicted to worsen overnight, resulting in:
- Difficult travel conditions
- Reduced visibility
- Quick accumulation of slushy roads
Travel is predicted to be challenging late Sunday evening and into the night as snowfall intensifies.
Tracking the Snow Band
As the lake effect snow band shifts southwest into northwest Indiana and the Chicagoland area early Monday morning, Michiana may experience a brief respite from the snow. However, the band is expected to return to the area Monday afternoon, although snowfall rates during this second wave might not be as severe.
Snow Accumulation Estimates
Snowfall predictions indicate that areas closer to Lake Michigan could accumulate between 4 to 8 inches or more from Sunday afternoon through Tuesday morning. LaPorte County and northwest Indiana stand the best chance of receiving 8 inches or more due to their proximity to the lake. In contrast, regions farther west may see moderate accumulations.
Cold Temperatures Ahead
Along with snowfall, a cold front is impacting the region. Sunday’s high temperatures are only expected to reach the upper 30s, with wind chills making it feel even colder. Conditions are predicted to remain breezy, especially on Monday morning, when temperatures could feel like they’re in the teens.
As the week progresses, any snow accumulation likely won’t last long. Temperatures are anticipated to recover into the upper 40s and low 50s by the end of the workweek, melting away any remnants of the snowfall.
