Lafayette, Indiana (Aiexpress)— The good news is that snowstorms on Sunday and Monday are unlikely to dump more than 10 inches of snow on Lafayette.
The bad news: There will be a major storm, tremendous winds, and very cold temperatures.
“You’re still going to see snow, but the likelihood of seeing 6 inches in Tippecanoe County has decreased,” meteorologist Mike Ryan said early Friday afternoon from the National Weather Service’s Indianapolis office.
The storm appears to be moving south, which means it will arrive later in the day Sunday and dump less snow than previously expected, Ryan said, hedging his views because the current model could alter.
Ryan experiences a pause in the snow overnight Sunday, but the snow returns Monday during the day, accompanied by severe gusts and significantly lower temperatures.
“When things are all said and done, I think we’re looking more on the order of 3 to 6 inches, but that’s still going to be problematic because of the blowing and drifting.”
David Siple, a local meteorologist and Purdue communication specialist for the College of Science, stated, “Highs (Monday) around 25 tell me it’s going to be fine snow with blowing and drifting.”
Monday will bring strong northerly winds, according to Siple.
“I would expect east/west roads to become pretty bad Monday afternoon,” according to Siple. “Then it turns downright cold Tuesday.”
“The snowpack and clear skies set up the bitter cold,” Siple explained of the dangerously low temperatures. “Right now, the low Wednesday night is around negative 2.”
The Climate Prediction Center predicts temperatures will remain below normal for eight to 14 days, maybe two or three weeks, according to Siple.
Winter watch or advisory? Check your weather app.
The National Weather Service issued a Winter Storm Watch on Thursday and reaffirmed it on Friday.
Ryan stated that National Weather Service meteorologists are analyzing forecasts for the Sunday/Monday storm and will update the forecast—as well as the storm watch status—later Friday or early Saturday. He added the watch might be reduced to a winter storm advisory for Tippecanoe County.
Readers should check their weather apps for the most recent information on the storm and prediction.
Purdue vs. Northwestern basketball game Sunday
Those heading south to West Lafayette for Sunday’s Purdue-Northwestern basketball game may be in luck. According to Siple, the Chicago area should expect anywhere from a trace to three inches of snow.
“Here, we’re going to be stacking up snow throughout the game,” Siple said of the snow, with a hint of confidence that the pre-storm road treatments will melt much of Sunday’s snow and keep the roads passable.
“Lafayette southward is going to be the more concerning area,” according to Siple.
Travelers heading north to West Lafayette for the 2 p.m. game should be wary of shifting weather and road conditions, Siple warned. The storm will bring heavier snows south of Tippecanoe County, so drivers should be prepared for a difficult journey.
Driving conditions and weather preparation
“Our troopers will be out across the state, working to ensure the safety of all motorists,” Indiana State Police Sgt. Jeremy Piers stated. “Please do your part by slowing down, increasing following distances, and avoiding unnecessary travel during severe weather.” Our primary goal is to ensure that everyone arrives at their destination safely.
Piers also encourages drivers to pull over for emergency vehicles and stranded automobiles.
Before leaving, Piers recommends that drivers verify road conditions by visiting 511in.org.
“When winter weather hits, stay home if possible,” the AAA Hoosier Motor Club stated in a news release. “Keeping highways free of needless traffic can benefit roadside technicians, tow companies, and emergency responders.
“If you must drive and find yourself stuck on the side of the road, stay in your vehicle while you wait for help,” according to the AAA Association.
“Do not try to walk in a severe storm, as it can be easy to lose sight of your car and get lost, and passing vehicles may not be able to see you,” says AAA. “Tie a brightly colored cloth to your antenna or the top of a rolled-up window to signal distress and make it simpler for emergency responders to find you. If you’re trying to dig yourself out of the snow, don’t overwork yourself and take rests.
Preparing the automobile
It is also critical to ensure that your vehicle is weather-ready.
AAA recommends keeping an emergency car kit stocked with flashlights, phone chargers, blankets, bottled water, a first aid kit, battery jumper cables, and a shovel. Check that the car’s lights and wipers work, and that the tires are properly filled.
AAA also recommends that motorists fill their gas tanks and maintain them at least half full to avoid freezing condensation on the inside.
On the positive side
Old Man Winter’s days are, as always, numbered.
Spring arrives in 76 days from Friday, and Daylight Saving Time begins in 65 days.
