Mike Wolanin | The Republic Statues Frog Pond and Lilly brave the elements in Columbus, Ind., Monday, Jan. 26, 2026. A winter storm dropped over a foot of snow across Columbus and Bartholomew County.
A winter storm warning issued by the National Weather Service expired at 7 a.m. today, but a cold weather advisory remains in effect until 7 p.m. today.
An Extreme Cold Warninng is in effect from 7 p.m. today through 9 a.m. Tuesday.
Bartholomew County’s travel status remains at warning, meaning only emergency personnel should be on the roads.
Blowing and drifting snow is expected today through Tuesday, according to Bartholomew County Emergency Management. Wind gusts of 35 mph are forecast for today, and 30 mph tonight and Tuesday.
Snow
Snowfall totals across the county range from 13-16 inches.
Hazardous travel conditions continue.
Blowing and drifting expected today through tomorrow. Wind gusts 35 mph today, 30 mph tonight/tomorrow.
Temperatures
Highs this week single digits to teens.
Subzero lows through Friday.
Wind chills often below zero through the remainder of the week.
Sub-freezing temperatures to continue into early February which may lead to ice jams.
Wind Chills
Wind chill values as low as -18° to -25° during Extreme Cold Warning.
Frostbite can occur on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes.
Sub-zero wind chills may persist into mid-week next week.
Timing
Blowing and drifting snow today through Tuesday.
Additional Details
Arctic air arriving late this week will be reinforced by multiple Arctic cold fronts next week, prolonging the cold conditions.
Rapid river ice formation and thickening is expected on area rivers and streams over the next week.
With temperatures likely to remain sub-freezing through early February, ice may be fairly thick in spots by the thaw.
Check road conditions with the INDOT Trafficwise Map at https://511in.org .
Check statewide travel advisories at https://www.in.gov/dhs/travel-advisory-map/ .
What You Should Do
Avoid unnecessary travel during periods of heavy snow.
Dress in layers and limit time outdoors during dangerous cold.
Prepare your vehicle with winter safety supplies.
Check emergency kits and have extra food, water, and medications.
Make sure pets have adequate shelter, food, and water. Bring them indoors if possible.
Protect pipes from freezing. Open cabinet doors around plumbing, let cold water drip from the faucets, wrap insulation around pipes in unheated areas.
Please continue to monitor forecast updates as confidence increases, and plan accordingly for prolonged cold and potential winter weather impacts.
