Storm warnings lifted; dangerous roads continue

Although our area is no longer under a winter storm warning, and a winter weather advisory expired at 7 this morning, roads are still extremely dangerous.

Officials are urging you to stay off the roads this morning. Most area counties are under a red travel warning, meaning you should refrain from all travel.

Sgt. Stephen Wheeles with the Indiana State Police says there have been multiple crashes on I-65 this morning near the Jonesville exit. He says roadways are still ice and snow covered and the cold temperature means pavement could freeze and become slick.

Bartholomew, Brown, Decatur Jackson and Jennings counties have red travel warnings in place this morning, the highest level of local travel restrictions.

Shannan Cooke, head of the Bartholomew County Emergency Management department, says that red travel warning will not likely change until mid-morning or later, if at all. She said officials will take into account current conditions, but also the expected cold temperatures coming tonight and additional refreezing of roadways.

Johnson and Shelby counties are under an orange travel watch, which means that conditions are threatening and you should only travel if it is essential such as to work or for emergencies.

You could still see some light snow with minor accumulations. But blowing snow will continue to be a hazard, lowering visibility.

Temperatures tonight are expected to drop to -1.

Photo: A semi crash on Interstate 65 near Jonesville exit this morning. Photo courtesy of Indiana State Police.