As of 10:31 p.m., much of Indiana is still covered in snow from today’s winter storm. While weather conditions are expected to improve overnight, many roads are still snow covered and hazardous.

Hoosiers are encouraged to check local conditions and follow the travel directions of local authorities. In Kosciusko County, county roads are still very slick and motorists should use caution. Central and southern Indiana were hit hardest by today’s storm where up to a foot of snow fell.

The state of Indiana Emergency Operations Center increased staffing as of 7 a.m. Wednesday and will remain staffed at its current level overnight. In the EOC are: Indiana Department of Homeland Security, Indiana State Police, Indiana National Guard, Indiana Department of Transportation and the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission.

The Indiana Department of Transportation continues to plow interstates, U.S. highways and state routes with approximately 750 trucks statewide.

Citizens are asked to carefully consider whether travel is necessary before venturing out. Consult the Indiana Travel Advisory Map at getprepared.in.gov.  While the storm continues to move out of the state, many roads and Interstate exit and on ramps are still slick and hazardous. Hoosiers should plan accordingly and allow extra time for travel to their destination.

IDHS also recommends carrying blankets, extra water, a small shovel and other items which may be helpful if you find yourself in trouble on the road.

Power Outages
There are currently 1,661 customers without power in the state. That include customers of:

Duke Energy – 1,344 without power
NIPSCO – 212 without power
Vectren – 58 without power
IPL – 38 without power
South Central Indiana REMC – 9 without power

If customers experience a power outage, they should report it to their electric utility by calling the company directly. While utility companies will be working overnight to repair any outages, storms of this size and magnitude often make it very difficult to restore power immediately.

Charge cell phones, laptops and other devices now so that if power goes out, you will have a maximum charge on electronic devices. Be sure to have food and water for three days, a battery operated or hand crank all hazards radio, flashlights, extra batteries, extra blankets and extra clothing.

If you can’t stay in your home due to cold temperatures, call your local authorities to find the location of a shelter