Fri Jan 16 11:00:00 UTC 2026: ### Record Snowfall Buries Southwest Michigan and Northwest Indiana; More Winter Weather Expected

The Story:
A powerful lake effect snow band dumped record-breaking snowfall on southwest Michigan and northwest Indiana on Wednesday, January 14, 2026. Niles, Michigan received a staggering 16 inches of snow, while Bourbon, Indiana, and Bertrand Township followed closely with 15 and 14 inches respectively. South Bend, Indiana, shattered its previous one-day snowfall record for January 14, recording 12.6 inches, surpassing the old record by a full 6 inches. The region is bracing for more winter weather, including a clipper system bringing widespread snow on Friday, and another shot of Arctic air over the weekend, promising continued lake effect snow.

Key Points:

  • Niles, MI received 16 inches of snow on January 14, 2026.
  • South Bend, IN broke its previous one-day snowfall record for January 14 with 12.6 inches.
  • A clipper system will bring widespread, light snow to West Michigan on Friday.
  • Arctic air is expected to arrive over the weekend, increasing the likelihood of continued lake effect snow.
  • Hazardous driving conditions are expected due to snow and blowing snow.

Key Takeaways:

  • Lake effect snow can produce extremely localized and intense snowfall.
  • The proximity of the Great Lakes significantly impacts weather patterns in surrounding areas.
  • Even relatively light snowfall can cause significant traffic disruptions, especially during commute times.
  • Following weather forecasts from reliable sources like News Channel 3 is crucial during winter.
  • The cold weather pattern is expected to persist for several days.

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