Sunday morning photo from Fishers Police of an unidentified location
Fishers residents are being urged to stay off the roads as a winter storm continues to bring heavy snow, blowing winds and dangerously cold temperatures to central Indiana.
Fishers Police issued a blunt message Sunday morning as conditions worsened: “STAY HOME.” Officers said while Department of Public Works crews are actively clearing roads, continued snowfall and wind are making it difficult to keep streets passable.
“If you must get out today, give yourself extra time, slow down and increase following distance, turn on your headlights, and clear all snow and ice from your vehicle,” police said. “You stay home. We’ll be out. Call if you need us.”
Hamilton County Emergency Management has upgraded the county’s travel status to a Travel Watch due to deteriorating road conditions. Officials report roads are snow-covered and slick, with blowing and drifting snow significantly reducing visibility and making travel hazardous. Travel is strongly discouraged unless absolutely necessary.
The National Weather Service has extended the Winter Storm Warning until 7 a.m. Monday. Forecasters expect total snow accumulations of 6 to 10 inches across portions of central Indiana, with travel conditions likely to remain very difficult and potentially impacting the Monday morning commute.
In addition to snow, dangerously cold temperatures are expected. An Extreme Cold Warning is in effect from midnight tonight until 11 a.m. Monday, with wind chills as low as 20 to 25 degrees below zero. A Cold Weather Advisory follows from late Monday morning through noon Tuesday, with wind chills near 20 below zero.
The National Weather Service warns that frostbite can occur on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes under these conditions.
Residents are encouraged to delay all travel if possible. Those who must be out should use extreme caution, allow extra travel time, carry an emergency kit in their vehicle, and check road conditions before leaving. Officials also urge residents to dress in layers, cover exposed skin, and check on older neighbors and family members.
Portable heaters should be used safely, and generators or grills should never be used indoors.
For the latest road conditions, residents can call 511.