National Weather Service Cautions Against Burning

 
 

Northern Indiana is under a Red Flag Warning until 8 p.m. EDT/7 p.m. CDT this evening. That means critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now or will develop shortly. In this case a combination of gusty wind and low relative humidity will cause any fires that develop to spread rapidly. Outdoor burning is not recommended. Be careful when discarding cigarettes and cooking on grills as well.

Watch for Rising Water Levels

 
 

Rapid melting of snow could lead to minor flooding issues as temperatures warm up this week.

Snow melt and frozen ground will prevent the water from being absorbed. The National Weather Service says this combination will result in flooding of low lying areas, ponding on roads, and a rise in water levels in ditches, creeks and retention ponds.

Weather officials believe that river flooding will not be a concern at this time.

Marshall County EMA Director Clyde Avery said that no flood watches or warnings have been issued. He does encourage those who live in flood-prone areas to take precautions to prevent flooding. Never allow children to play near flooded areas. Do not drive around barricades that are blocking roads that are flooded. Road beds may be washed out by flood waters.

 

Wind Chill Advisory Takes Effect This Afternoon

 
 

A wind chill advisory will take effect this afternoon and remain in place through midday tomorrow. Dangerous wind chill values between 10 and 25 below zero are expected late this afternoon through tomorrow morning. Prolonged exposure to extreme cold can lead to hypothermia and frostbite in 30 minutes or less. If you have to be outside, wear a hat and gloves and protect exposed skin.

Winter Weather Advisory Issued for Kankakee Valley

 
 

A Winter Weather Advisory has been issued for the Kanakee Valley during the overnight hours. It takes effect at 11 p.m. EST/10 p.m. CST and continues through tomorrow evening. Snow and blowing snow are possible, with totals of 3 to 7 inches expected across the advisory area. The system is lake effect, so forecasters stress it’s hard to predict where it will hit. Continue reading

More Snow Headed Toward Northern Indiana

 
 

Mother Nature isn’t done with us yet. The National Weather Service has issued a winter weather advisory for the area from noon EST/11 a.m. CST until 7 p.m. EST/6 p.m. CST today. Snow accumulations of between 2 and 4 inches are expected, with locally heavier amounts possible. Visibility may be reduced during periods of heavy snowfall. Motorists should expect snow-covered roads and plan accordingly. Remember, ice and snow, take it slow.

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Winter Storm Warning Remains in Effect

 
 

A Winter Storm Warning remains in effect for the WKVI listening area through 7 a.m. EST/6 a.m. CST. A combination of light and blowing and drifting snow will make travel difficult to impossible, and some unplowed roads are likely impassable. Motorists should only travel in an emergency. If you do venture out, be sure to take a flashlight, extra food and water, a shovel, blankets, jumper cables, a cell phone charger and sand or kitty litter to use for traction should you become stuck.

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High Temperatures, Heat Indexes Predicted Today

  
 

We’re in for another hot, humid day across the Kankakee Valley. Temperatures are expected to climb into the upper 80s to around 90 today. It will feel much warmer due to increasing humidity. By this afternoon the heat index is expected to be in the 95 to 100 degree range. Outdoor workers are urged to take frequent breaks and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. If you have outdoor pets, make sure they have ample water and plenty of shade as well.

Flooding Possible This Morning Across Kankakee Valley

 
 

Flash flood warnings are in effect this morning for parts of the WKVI listening area. The National Weather Service has issued warnings for Starke, Pulaski, Fulton and LaPorte Counties. Additional rain is expected until about 8 a.m. Central and could cause problems in low-lying areas. Excessive runoff from heavy rainfall may also lead to flooding of small creeks, streams, highways and overpasses. Should water start to rise, move to higher ground immediately.

Tornado Activity Confirmed in Starke County

  
 

“Tornado activity” was confirmed by the National Weather Service as the cause of extensive damage from Monday night’s storms in the Grovertown area.

Starke County EMA Director Ted Bombagetti told WKVI News that he conducted an assessment in the Grovertown area late Wednesday afternoon and he observed rotational damage in the area. That information was forwarded to National Weather Service officials who confirmed “tornado activity” occurred in the area.

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