Indiana Faces Life-Threatening Arctic Cold as Wind Chills Plunge to −25°F Across Central and Southern Counties Through Wednesday
INDIANA — A dangerous blast of Arctic air is gripping central and southern Indiana, bringing life-threatening wind chills as low as −20°F to −25°F from late Tuesday night through midday Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service. Officials warn that frostbite could occur in as little as 30 minutes, even faster with prolonged exposure or strong winds.
Extreme Cold Warnings and Cold Weather Advisories are now in effect across a wide swath of the state, including Indianapolis, Lafayette, Kokomo, Muncie, Noblesville, Danville, Terre Haute, Shelbyville, and Winchester, with conditions expected to remain hazardous until at least 12 PM Wednesday.
Extreme Cold Warning Issued for Central Indiana
Meteorologists say the coldest conditions will occur overnight into early Wednesday morning, when actual air temperatures near zero combine with strong winds, driving wind chill values into the −20°F to −25°F range.
Counties under an Extreme Cold Warning face the highest risk of rapid frostbite, hypothermia, and cold-related emergencies. These conditions are considered dangerous to life and property, especially for those without adequate heating or shelter.
Cold Weather Advisory Covers Surrounding Areas
Areas just outside the core warning zone remain under a Cold Weather Advisory, where wind chills between −15°F and −20°F are expected. While slightly less severe, these conditions are still dangerous and can quickly become life-threatening without proper precautions.
Officials stress that no part of central or southern Indiana is immune from cold-related impacts during this event.
Frostbite and Hypothermia Risks Are High
Health officials warn that exposed skin can develop frostbite within 30 minutes, and even faster if winds increase or clothing becomes damp. Hypothermia is also a major concern, particularly for:
- People without reliable heat
- Outdoor workers
- Those traveling overnight
- Elderly residents
- Pets and livestock
Residents are urged to limit time outdoors, dress in multiple insulating layers, and cover exposed skin completely.
Safety Actions Residents Should Take Immediately
Emergency managers recommend the following actions during this extreme cold period:
- Wear multiple layers if going outdoors, including gloves, hats, and face coverings
- Keep pets indoors and ensure livestock have shelter
- Check on elderly neighbors, friends, and family
- Avoid unnecessary travel late at night and early morning
- Protect pipes from freezing by letting faucets drip and opening cabinet doors
- Limit time spent outdoors, even for short errands
Officials emphasize that these temperatures are not typical winter cold and should be treated seriously.
Cold Slowly Moderates After Wednesday Afternoon
Temperatures are expected to slowly recover after Wednesday afternoon, but conditions will remain below normal for the remainder of the week. Any additional wind could prolong dangerous wind chills beyond the current advisory window.
Forecasters continue to monitor conditions closely and urge residents to stay alert for updates.
WaldronNews Weather Alert
Extreme cold like this can be deadly if ignored. Stay informed, take precautions seriously, and check back with WaldronNews for continued updates as conditions evolve across Indiana.