Indiana activates National Guard ahead of winter storm

INDIANA - Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb activated the Indiana National Guard ahead of an expected winter storm late Sunday into Monday.

The National Guard members will provide support and assistance to state and local first responders. They’ll be there to help motorists with any type of winter emergencies, according to a spokesperson.

Fox 32 Meteorologist Mark Stehl said parts of downstate Illinois and central and southern Indiana are expected to receive heavy snowfall. Indianapolis could see as much as 8 to 9 inches of snowfall, although that’s a rough estimate, according to Strehl. 

The National Weather Service issued a Winter Storm Warning which will be in effect for several counties across Indiana from 10 a.m. on Sunday through 7 pm. on Monday. The NWS warned of heavy mixed precipitation with snow accumulations of 6 to 9 inches and ice accumulation. Winds could gust up to 35 mph.

The National Guard teams comprise 122 Hoosier Guardsman working across seven Indiana National Guard armories in Bedford, Edinburgh, Evansville, Indianapolis, New Albany, Shelbyville, and Washington.

Officials said the initial plans are for the National Guard to remain active through Tuesday.