INDIANA — An unusual “backdoor” cold front is expected to move into Indiana by Friday morning, bringing a sharp split in temperatures across the state. Northeast Indiana could wake up in the upper 30s to low 40s, while southwest Indiana stays in the 50s. Unlike most fronts, this one will push cooler air in from the northeast instead of the west. Frost chances will be watched, though widespread frost is not expected at this time.
What Is a Backdoor Cold Front
Most cold fronts move across the country from west to east. A backdoor cold front does the opposite, pushing cooler air into a region from the northeast or east. The name comes from the idea that the cold air sneaks in through the “back door.”
These fronts often form when high pressure over eastern Canada or the Great Lakes pushes a shallow layer of cold air southwest. That cold air spills toward Indiana from Ohio and Michigan. Because the layer is shallow, it can stall and create sharp temperature differences.
Northeast Indiana Coldest at Sunrise
The coldest temperatures Friday morning are expected across northeast Indiana. Areas around Fort Wayne could see readings in the low 40s to upper 30s around 8 a.m. That region will be first in line as the cold air spills in from the northeast.
Communities across the northeast corner of the state may need jackets and possibly ice scrapers. Rural and low-lying spots could run a few degrees colder than town centers. Clear skies would help temperatures fall even further overnight.
Central Indiana in the Mid to Upper 40s
Central Indiana will sit in the middle of the temperature split. Indianapolis, Lafayette, and Seymour are expected to be in the mid to upper 40s Friday morning. Gary and northwest Indiana are also forecast in this range…