Lifestyle Trend: 40 Indiana Counties Under Red-Level Travel Warning as Snowstorm Intensifies You Should Know

Forty Indiana counties are currently under a red-level Travel Warning, the highest advisory issued by local emergency management agencies, as a widespread winter storm continues to impact the state.

According to the Indiana Department of Homeland Security travel advisory map, conditions have deteriorated significantly across central, southern, and southwestern Indiana, prompting officials to urge residents to avoid all non-emergency travel.

A Travel Warning represents the most severe advisory level. During a warning, travel may be restricted to emergency management workers only. Residents are directed to refrain from all travel, comply with emergency measures, cooperate with public officials, and follow lawful directions from authorities.

Exceptions are limited and defined under Indiana Code 10-14-3-29. As of Sunday evening, counties including Marion, Hamilton, Bartholomew, Monroe, Vigo, Clark, Floyd, Johnson, and Morgan are among those under this highest-level restriction.

In addition to warnings, dozens of counties remain under a Travel Watch, which indicates conditions are threatening to public safety. Under a watch, only essential travel—such as commuting to work or responding to emergencies—is recommended. Businesses, schools, and government agencies are advised to implement emergency action plans. Large portions of northern and central Indiana, including Allen, Tippecanoe, Delaware, Madison, and Howard counties, are currently under this designation.

The lowest tier, a Travel Advisory, means routine travel may be restricted in specific areas due to hazardous conditions. Drivers are urged to use caution or avoid affected areas altogether. Several northwest Indiana counties, including Lake, Porter, LaPorte, and Jasper, remain under advisory status.

Weather Forecast and Impacts

The National Weather Service has issued multiple Winter Storm Warnings across nearly the entire state, remaining in effect through Monday morning. Central, northern, and southern Indiana are expected to receive additional snowfall of up to two inches, with some northern counties seeing localized totals of up to three inches. Roads, bridges, and overpasses are expected to remain slick and hazardous, with travel conditions deteriorating further overnight.

Forecasters warn that the storm could significantly impact the Monday morning commute statewide. While snowfall amounts may appear modest, persistent cold temperatures and compacted snow are increasing the risk of icy roadways. The National Weather Service advises motorists to delay all travel if possible and to use extreme caution if travel is unavoidable.

Residents are encouraged to monitor local advisories, check road conditions via 511in.org, and follow guidance from county emergency management officials as conditions evolve.