Bitter Cold Streak Continues Testing Indianapolis Area Residents

INDIANAPOLIS, IN — The bitterly cold, frigid temperatures this week are nothing new for Indianapolis area residents, but those in the South are probably not too pleased with the cold path brought to them Tuesday and Wednesday. While Indianapolis Public Schools canceled classes Tuesday as Patch reported the city tied a record low for the day — set in 1887 — of minus 12 degrees (-24 Celsius), Associated Press reports the northwest Indiana city of Lafayette got down to minus 19 (-28 Celsius), breaking a record set in 1979. AP says many local residents reportedly noticed a hum, which Duke Energy said was caused by extra power surging through utility lines to meet electricity demands.

If it's even possible, keep in mind that temperatures have been lower in the Hoosier state, thanks to minus 36 (-38 Celsius) in 1994, but this current cold streak has lasted quite some time.

The cold streak has been blamed for at least a dozen deaths, prompted officials to open warming centers in the Deep South and triggered pleas from government officials to check on neighbors, especially those who are elderly, sick or who live alone.

While several warming shelters and help centers are open in Indianapolis, some have even opened up down South, due to freeze watches and warnings in Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama, AP says.

Thursday's forecast across Indianapolis shows a whopping high of 12 degrees. Be safe out there.

Local help: Indianapolis Area Shelters Open During Hazardous Weather Outlook

More: apnews.com

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