Indiana Braces for Dangerous Cold Snap as Wind Chills Drop to 5°F From Monday Night Through Midweek
INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA — A powerful blast of Arctic air is set to push across Indiana beginning Monday night, driving wind chills down to 5°F or lower through early Wednesday and delivering the coldest stretch of the season so far. Forecasters at the National Weather Service warn that conditions could become hazardous for commuters, students, and anyone spending extended time outdoors.
Gusty winds reaching 35 mph will move in Sunday night, helping pull frigid air across the state. By Monday evening, temperatures in central Indiana will sit in the mid-20s — but wind chills will make it feel closer to the single digits.
Cities including Kokomo, Lafayette, and Muncie are expected to experience some of the lowest readings, with minimum wind chills forecast between 5°F and 10°F by early Tuesday.
Wind Gusts and Single-Digit Wind Chills Expected Overnight
The most dangerous conditions will occur during the overnight and early morning hours, when wind speeds remain steady and temperatures continue dropping. The wind-enhanced chill will make exposed skin vulnerable, and travel conditions may feel significantly colder than the thermometer indicates.
Even short outdoor exposure can increase the risk of frostbite or hypothermia, especially for young children and older adults.
NWS Advises Layered Clothing, Limited Outdoor Time
Meteorologists recommend:
- Wearing multiple insulated layers
- Keeping hands, ears, and face covered
- Ensuring vehicles are winter-ready
- Maintaining adequate home heating
- Checking on vulnerable neighbors and pets
While wind speeds will ease gradually, the deeply cold air will linger through midweek.
A second cold surge could arrive later in the week, though forecasts remain uncertain.
Five-Day Forecast for Indianapolis, Indiana
Sunday: High 34°F — Gusty winds; wind chills fall into the teens overnight
Monday: High 35°F, Low 21°F — Wind chills near 10°F by evening
Tuesday: High 28°F, Low 18°F — Wind chills dropping to around 5°F
Wednesday: High 32°F, Low 22°F — Lingering cold with wind chills in the teens
Thursday: High 38°F — Slight warm-up with lighter winds
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