Travel restrictions remain in place across Knox County and much of Southwest Indiana as officials continue to respond to the impacts of the recent winter storm and ongoing extreme cold.
Most counties in Southwest Indiana remain under a Red Travel Warning, the highest level of local travel advisory. Posey and Vanderburgh counties are under an Orange Travel Watch. According to the Indiana Department of Homeland Security, a Red Travel Warning directs residents to avoid travel unless it is absolutely necessary and allows travel to be limited to emergency vehicles and essential workers only.
In Knox County, Chief Deputy John Fuller confirmed that a local disaster declaration, Ordinance 2026-1, was signed and filed at the courthouse earlier this week. The declaration is required under Indiana law before a warning-level travel advisory can be issued. Fuller said a signed copy of the declaration will be shared with agencies and organizations that require official documentation.
Fuller said Knox County remains under a Red Travel Warning per the County Commissioners. He noted that all roads in the county are snow-packed, slick, and hazardous, and that residents should stay off roadways unless travel is absolutely necessary. Only emergency vehicles and essential workers are permitted to travel.
Fuller also warned that drivers who slide off the road or become stuck could be stranded for an extended period of time. He encouraged anyone who must travel to ensure their cell phone is fully charged and to dress in warm layers.
Indiana State Police report that major highways across the region are mostly passable with caution, but snow and ice remain in many lanes. Conditions on secondary and rural roads continue to vary, with some areas still unsafe to navigate.
Knox County Emergency Management Director John Streeter said county government remains focused on public safety and continuity of operations. Emergency Management is coordinating with local law enforcement, highway departments, utilities, and other community partners to monitor conditions and maintain essential services where needed.
Streeter said road conditions can vary across the county and operations are adjusted as weather and roadway conditions change. He encouraged residents to limit travel when possible, use caution, and stay informed through official Knox County updates and advisories. He also urged residents to check on neighbors, particularly elderly individuals, those with medical needs, or anyone who may need extra assistance during the storm.
County officials say conditions will continue to be evaluated as cleanup efforts move forward and as weather impacts change.
Snowfall totals reached 14 inches or more in parts of Southwest Indiana. While the Winter Storm Warning has expired, cold weather threats continue. The National Weather Service has issued Extreme Cold Warnings and Cold Weather Advisories across much of Indiana, with wind chills expected to drop as low as 25 degrees below zero in the coming days. Frostbite can occur in less than 20 minutes under those conditions.
Officials recommend limiting time outdoors, dressing in layers, and using space heaters with caution. Grills and generators should not be used indoors.
