Indiana Braces for Explosive Overnight Snowstorm as 2–3 Inch-Per-Hour Rates and Thundersnow Threat Emerge Into Sunday
INDIANA — A rapidly intensifying winter storm is now firmly entrenched across Indiana late Saturday night, with widespread snow already overspreading the state and a much more dangerous phase expected to unfold after 3:00 a.m. ET Sunday as the second half of a powerful two-part system moves in.
Radar imagery around 10:45 p.m. ET confirms snow has fully moved into Indiana and is expected to remain ongoing through Sunday night, marking the beginning of what forecasters describe as a high-impact, potentially disruptive winter storm.
The most severe conditions are expected early Sunday morning through Sunday evening, when snowfall rates may exceed 2 inches per hour and locally approach 3 inches per hour, especially beneath the most intense snow bands.
Second Wave Brings Extreme Snow Rates and Thundersnow Risk
Meteorological guidance shows this storm unfolding in two distinct rounds, with Round 1 already underway across much of Indiana. Round 2, however, is expected to be significantly stronger as deeper moisture and lift surge northward into the region.
As this second wave arrives after 3:00 a.m. ET, snowfall intensity is forecast to rapidly increase. Forecasters warn that thundersnow is possible, a rare but dangerous signal of extremely strong upward motion capable of producing whiteout conditions in minutes.
Heavy Snow Axis Focused Across Central and Southern Indiana
Current projections indicate 8 to 14 inches of total snowfall across large portions of Indiana by Sunday night. The highest accumulations are expected south of U.S. Route 24, where prolonged heavy banding is most likely to set up.
Meanwhile, northwest Indiana, which may sit just north of the most intense snow bands, is still expected to see 3 to 5 inches, enough to cause hazardous travel but less than areas farther south and east.
Cities and corridors across central and southern Indiana, including areas near and south of Indianapolis, are at greatest risk for prolonged heavy snowfall and rapidly deteriorating conditions.
Fluffy Snow and Gusty Winds Add to Travel Dangers
The snow associated with this storm is described as light and fluffy, similar in texture to snowfalls common in North Dakota, which increases the risk for blowing and drifting even with modest winds.
Northeast winds are expected to gust up to 25 mph, which could lead to drifting on open roadways, reduced visibility, and rapidly changing driving conditions—especially during heavier bursts of snow.
While drifting is currently expected to remain minor, the combination of high snowfall rates, gusty winds, and poor visibility could make travel dangerous to impossible at times.
Travel Discouraged as Conditions Worsen Overnight
Officials are urging residents to avoid unnecessary travel, particularly during the overnight and early morning hours Sunday, and to closely monitor county-level travel advisories as conditions evolve.
Road crews may struggle to keep pace once snowfall rates exceed 2 inches per hour, and visibility could drop quickly under heavier bands or thundersnow.
Storm Timeline and What to Expect Next
- Now through early Sunday morning: Snow continues statewide, gradually increasing in intensity
- After 3:00 a.m. ET Sunday: Second, more powerful wave arrives with extreme snowfall rates
- Sunday daytime into evening: Widespread heavy snow continues, with highest totals in central and southern Indiana
- Sunday night: Snow gradually tapers, but hazardous travel conditions persist
This system represents one of the more impactful winter storms of the season for Indiana, with a long-duration snowfall, intense rates, and dangerous travel conditions expected.
If you’re experiencing heavy snow, road closures, or rapidly changing conditions in your area, we want to hear from you. Share your local updates and stay informed with continued coverage at CabarrusWeekly.com as this major winter storm unfolds.
