County officials keeping a watch on travel conditions as snow continues to fall in Michiana

 

ELKHART COUNTY, Ind -- Travel conditions throughout Michiana are being monitored after going from advisory to watch level overnight due to heavy snow.

Rain conditions cautioned officials to place Elkhart County on advisory level, prior to switching to an orange watch level after early morning snow levels.

"All that watch does is say hey it’s not a tornado warning, it’s kind of a bad thunderstorm. So, in a snow event we’re not to the point where people need to stay at home. People just need to be aware that the roads are slipper, the roads are slushy, there’s an accumulation of snow. And now with an impending wind coming, there’s concerns," said Elkhart County Emergency Manager Director Jennifer Tobey.

One driver says he traveling from Michigan and although he’s not concerned with the current conditions, he is taking safety measures and has some tips for others.

"Advice for anyone is when you start to slide out, steer into it, let off your acceleration, put it in neutral and don’t over-steer and be watchful. Give yourself plenty of breaking time," said Michigan resident Eric Bowman.

As for others who don’t plan on leaving the house today, they’re staying prepared as snow continues to fall.

"Today I'm just getting the necessities done. Helping neighbors out. Help me out, so if I decide to go to work tomorrow, boom, I can get out here and get out of here I hope depending on what kind of snow we get," said Elkhart resident Mel Moore.

According to officials, it’s ok to hit the road and they don’t have an issue with that.

"I don’t have a problem with people being out on the road I just want them to be prepared. Have a charged cellphone, maybe make sure they take their coat, gloves, and hat and just be vigilant that road conditions might be a little challenging," said Tobey.

Whatever you do throughout this abundance of snow, have fun.

"Honestly this is Northern Indiana in the winter time, so go out and have some snowball fights and build a snowman," said Tobey.