INDIANA — A powerful snow squall sweeping south-southeast out of Michigan moved into Northern Indiana this evening, producing whiteout conditions, rapid snowfall rates up to 2 inches per hour, and wind gusts strong enough to severely reduce visibility with little to no warning. The burst of intense winter weather has already impacted travel across areas from South Bend to Fort Wayne, where drivers are being urged to use extreme caution.
Snow Squall Producing Instant Whiteouts
Forecasters warn that this snow squall is “on-demand whiteout weather,” capable of turning calm, scenic snowfall into a blinding wall of snow within seconds.
The rapid deterioration in conditions is caused by:
- Heavy snow bands dropping 1–2 inches per hour
- Strong, gusty winds reducing visibility to near zero
- Fast-moving squall lines creating sudden road hazards
Radar imagery shows thick snow bands sweeping across southwestern Michigan and pushing into Kalamazoo, South Bend, Goshen, Warsaw, Huntington, and Fort Wayne, with the strongest impacts concentrated near Fort Wayne.
Travel Conditions Worsening Quickly
Drivers in the path of the squall are advised to be prepared for abrupt whiteouts along major highways and local roads. Even short trips may become hazardous as conditions shift rapidly from clear visibility to complete obstruction.
- Reducing speed immediately when visibility drops
- Turning headlights on
- Giving extra space between vehicles
- Exiting the roadway safely if conditions become too severe
If possible, residents are encouraged to wait out the squall indoors until the line passes—typically within 30–45 minutes.
Meteorologists Urge Caution Across Northern Indiana
Weather experts describe this snow squall as one of the more intense bursts seen recently, noting that its combination of heavy snow and strong winds creates a “shaken snow globe effect” across open stretches of roadway. Unlike traditional winter storms, snow squalls strike quickly, offering little time for drivers to react.
Communities from South Bend to Fort Wayne should remain alert as additional narrow snow bands may continue forming behind the main squall. Stay connected to ongoing updates and winter weather coverage at NapervilleLocal.com…