INDIANAPOLIS — As the first major winter storm of the season prepares to hit the Hoosier state, Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett joined leaders from the National Weather Service, Department of Public Works and other public safety partners to detail how the city is preparing for the weather.
Road safety:
Hogsett began by saying the City of Indianapolis asks its residents to limit travel if possible. With winds expected to reach peaks of 30-35 mph Sunday night through Monday, visibility issues and hazardous driving conditions are expected.
Because of this, Hogsett urged drivers to:
- Leave for destinations early, to ensure you have plenty of time to arrive
- Provide space to other vehicles (including about three car lengths between your vehicle and Snow Force trucks)
- Keep supplies on hand, such as blankets, chargers and a small shovel.
Moreover, a press release from the City of Indianapolis noted that officers from the Indianapolis Metro Police Department will be monitoring roadways and responding to stranded drivers. Indy DPW will also be using their crews around the clock–aided by the Snow Force mapping tool–to ensure that roads are as safe and clear as possible.
Hogsett’s administration added that if residents notice trees blocking roadways or traffic lights without power, they should call the Mayor’s Action Center at (317) 327-4622. On weekends and evenings, residents can dial option 2 to directly reach DPW dispatch, the City of Indianapolis wrote. RequestIndy can also be used at any time to make specific reports.
Other impacts of winter weather:
Hogsett and his team noted that winter storms can also bring about power outages. Outages can be reported to AES Indiana at (317) 261-8111 or at this link.
In the release, the Indianapolis Fire Department wanted to remind residents to practice proper fire safety. If using a space heater, make sure to follow all instructions listed in the manual. Ovens, candles and stovetops should never be used to heat homes. Fireplaces should also exclusively be used as intended.
State residents must also clear a 5-foot wide path on sidewalks to ensure pedestrians can pass safely through the snow, per Indianapolis ordinance.
In addition, Indianapolis ordinance dictates that all animals should be brought indoors when temperatures are 20 degrees or lower.
Homelessness resources and shelter information:
Hogsett and officials wrote that former IPS School 68 will be transformed into a winter contingency family shelter, under a new partnership from the City of Indianapolis’ Office of Public Health and Safety, Indianapolis Public Schools and Aspire Health.
According to Hogsett, the 2024 Winter Contingency Plan was developed last year to protect individuals experiencing homelessness from the effects of winter weather. It will remain in effect through March 31.
Additionally, Hogsett and the City of Indianapolis said all Indy Parks Family Centers will remain open during regular open hours as warming centers. For more details on hours and locations, click here.
