The Indiana Department of Homeland Security says a significant weather event is predicted for the holiday weekend, including cold temperatures, high winds and potential blizzard-like conditions in some parts of the state, a system with the potential to be a life-threatening weather event that could result in serious traffic hazards and power outages. Locally, blizzard warnings have been issued for Porter and LaPorte counties.
“Hoosiers are encouraged to stay off the roads beginning Thursday evening and through the weekend unless travel is absolutely necessary. Give road crews the time and space to safely remove snow and ice from the roadways. Hoosiers can contact Indiana 211 for information about warming centers in their community,”the news release said.
The State Emergency Operations Center will be activated beginning at 7 a.m. Eastern Time Thursday and will operate 24/7 through the event. Governor Eric Holcomb has activated nearly 150 personnel from the Indiana National Guard to serve as Highway Assistance Teams, which will be strategically positioned across the northern third of the state to help motorists if needed.
The Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS) and National Weather Service are monitoring the inclement weather and working with emergency managers to gather real-time information as the weather develops.
The IDHS website houses the Get Prepared webpage that has critical tips for people to prepare for winter weather and what to do during the storm.
The Travel Advisory Map is active on the IDHS homepage . County emergency management agencies update this map to show the travel status of each county.
As this weather approaches, the IDHS said know that state and local agencies are tracking the system and making necessary preparations to respond to Hoosiers in need throughout this event.
Additional resources:
• Indiana 211 (warming centers)
• 511in.org (INDOT TrafficWise, real-time plow information)
• Winterops.indot.in.gov Register at this website to receive quarterly action plans from INDOT.
• NWS Chat register for an account and join chat rooms that are manned 24/7 with meteorologists from around the state. Ask questions and get access to real time info.
Officials say consider taking the time to check on neighbors, especially those with medical conditions. Also, bring all pets indoors. With extreme cold in the Region, Emergency Veterinary Care Centers says make sure your furry friends are somewhere safe, warm and dry; in the event of an emergency, their locations in Highland and at the Westville Purdue Northwest campus are open.
