Public Notice: Weather Emergency and City-County Service Disruptions

Mayor Declares Local Weather Emergency

In response to a massive winter storm that has blanketed the region with over 10 inches of snow, the Mayor of Indianapolis has declared a local weather emergency effective Monday, January 26, 2026. Significant snowfall and drifting ice have made roadways treacherous, and temperatures are expected to remain as low as 3 degrees below zero throughout the day. Residents are urged to stay home to allow emergency crews and snowplows to clear the primary thoroughfares. The National Weather Service has issued extreme cold warnings and winter storm warnings that remain in effect across the metro area.

Travel Warning Issued for Marion County

Marion County is currently under a Travel Warning, the highest level of local travel advisory. Under this warning, travel is restricted to emergency management workers and essential personnel only. Local law enforcement reminds citizens that individuals found on the roads without a legitimate emergency purpose may be redirected or cited to ensure the safety of first responders. Public safety officials emphasize that road conditions will continue to deteriorate due to blowing snow and subzero temperatures that limit the effectiveness of traditional salt treatments.

City and State Office Closures

Due to the hazardous conditions, the following administrative closures are in effect for Monday, January 26:

• All Indianapolis City-County offices are closed for in-person business.
• State executive branch offices in Indianapolis are closed for onsite services.
• The Indiana House of Representatives has canceled all scheduled sessions and committee meetings.
• Social Security hearing offices in the city have suspended in-person services, moving all scheduled appointments to telephone or virtual formats.

Health Advisories and Hospital Updates

Area health systems have adjusted operations to ensure patient and staff safety during the storm. Major providers, including Good Samaritan and Union Health, have announced the closure of all outpatient services and physician clinics for the day. While emergency departments and inpatient units remain fully operational 24/7, all non-essential elective procedures and therapy appointments have been postponed. Patients with scheduled appointments are asked to wait for contact from their providers to reschedule.

Public Works and Trash Collection Transition

The Department of Public Works (DPW) reminds residents that as of January 2026, Lakeshore Recycling Services (LRS) has officially taken over trash collection for areas previously serviced by Republic and WM. Due to the weather emergency, residential trash collection may be delayed. Residents should leave their carts at the curb unless otherwise instructed, as crews will attempt to resume routes as soon as the travel warning is lifted and main roads are cleared.