Indy Hit with Winter Blizzard, More Snow Possible

Combination of weather patterns brings heavy snowfall to Central Indiana, with potential for additional storms in coming weeks.

Jan. 28, 2026 at 4:55am

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A powerful winter storm blanketed Indianapolis and much of Central Indiana with nearly a foot of snow over the weekend, disrupting travel and daily life. While the snowfall did not break any local records, the storm's impact on the region was significant, with travel warnings, major highway accidents, and widespread business and school closures. Meteorologists say the storm was the result of an Arctic air mass from the north meeting a wet, subtropical flow from the south - a 'perfect recipe' for a winter blizzard.

Why it matters

Intense winter storms like this one are not uncommon in Indiana, with the state experiencing multiple heavy snowfall events over the past few decades. However, the unpredictable nature of these weather patterns makes them difficult to forecast and prepare for, leading to disruptions in daily life and raising questions about the region's resilience to extreme winter weather.

The details

The weekend's storm brought just under a foot of snow to Indianapolis, contributing to the city's above-average snowfall for the 2025-26 winter season. Meteorologists say the storm was fueled by a combination of factors, including a weak La Niña event bringing cold air from the north and a subtropical flow from the south. While the snowfall did not set any records, the storm's impact on travel, businesses, and schools was significant, with most of Central Indiana placed under a travel warning for over 24 hours.

  • The storm hit Central Indiana on the weekend of January 24-26, 2026.
  • The region saw nearly a foot of snow accumulate over the course of the storm.

The players

Jason Puma

A meteorologist with the Indianapolis National Weather Service office.

Melissa Widhalm

The associate director and regional climatologist with the Midwestern Regional Climate Center.

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What they’re saying

“We've seen systems move though in late February and even in March we might get a snowstorm.”

— Jason Puma, Meteorologist, Indianapolis National Weather Service (indystar.com)

“Generally, what makes a snowstorm like this memorable is the large volume [of snow] and really cold temps. That's going to stick in our brain.”

— Melissa Widhalm, Associate Director and Regional Climatologist, Midwestern Regional Climate Center (indystar.com)

What’s next

Meteorologists warn that the region is not out of the woods for additional winter storms, with the potential for more snow events in late February and even into March.

The takeaway

This winter storm highlights the unpredictable nature of extreme weather events in the Midwest, and the need for communities to be prepared for the disruptions that heavy snowfall can bring to daily life. As climate patterns continue to shift, understanding and adapting to these types of winter storms will be crucial for the region's resilience.