Winter Storm Warning Declared For Parts Of Central Indiana

Updated 3:45 p.m.

The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for parts of central Indiana, including Indianapolis, effective from 10 p.m. tonight to 10 a.m. Tuesday.

The storm warning replaces the winter weather advisory the NWS had issued earlier in the day. Snowfall estimates have been bumped up to 4-7 inches. The snow is expected to begin around 7 p.m. with the most intense snowfall occuring between 10 p.m. and 4 a.m.

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Accumulating snow and bitter cold temps are forecast for Indianapolis as the first significant winter storm of the season moves into the state.  National Weather Service meteorologists are saying between 4-6 inches of snow is expected in some areas of central and north central Indiana. 

The heavy snow could make for a long commute on Tuesday morning.  The Indianapolis Department of Public Works says they will have 90 Indy Snow Force drivers treating roadways tonight and a fresh crew of 90 drivers taking over tomorrow morning.

The storm will be followed by a dome of high pressure says Joesph Nield, meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Indianapolis.

"That's going to bring the coldest air of the season, so far, with some subzero temperatures likely across portions of the area," Nield said. "Along with the snowfall on the ground, that's going to bring our wind chill values down to some very dangerous levels."

State and local officials are reminding Hoosiers to postpone travel if possible and to have a plan in case utilities are disrupted.