A travel warning was lifted for LaPorte County on Saturday afternoon as snow cleanup efforts from a blast of winter weather that delivered more than three feet of snow remained underway.
An intense band of lake-effect snow pounded the region with more than two feet of snow on Friday, leading to treacherous road conditions and a chaotic scene on Interstate 94. Drivers were advised to avoid the interstate as traffic was brought to a standstill, causing snow plows to become stuck in backups and making it difficult for police to reach drivers in need.
While the county has already seen the majority of snow with this system, a winter storm warning remains in effect until 9 p.m. Saturday.
Moderate lake effect snow will likely persist through the evening, bringing an additional one to three inches of snow -- with higher amounts possible in some spots. After sunset, lake effect snow is finally expected to weaken.
At 4 p.m., county officials downgraded the travel warning to a travel advisory, under which drivers are encouraged to stay off the roads except when traveling to or from work or during an emergency.
In a Facebook post at 3:19 p.m., the LaPorte County Sheriff's Department asked residents to remove vehicles parked on roadways and in cul-de-sacs as plow crews work to clear all roads throughout the county.
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"During this process, especially in subdivisions, they've encountered vehicles parked on the roadways or in cul-de-sacs," the post read, in part. "If you have a vehicle parked in the roadway or a cul-de-sac, please remove it. This will allow La Porte County Highway employees to clear the roadways in a safe and efficient manner."
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Michigan City remained under a snow emergency until "further notice." In a letter to the community, Mayor Angie Nelson Deuitch asked drivers to stay off the roads until the emergency status is lifted.
A number of residents spent the day clearing snow from their driveways and sidewalks.
“Cold, tired, tired of the snow,” said resident Brian Logman. “It’s kinda pretty until you come out and shovel it and it’s not so pretty.”
Multiple neighbors said they haven't seen much snow in a long while.
“I think maybe 20 years ago we had a storm like this,” said resident Don Thompson. “This has been crazy. It just kept coming and coming.”
While many people stayed home as the snow moved through, plow crews have been staying busy.
“A lot of calls coming in for snow removal,” said Aaron Lindsey. “It’s been seven so far and we pick up jobs as we move.”
Lindsey, and his wife, Michelle, who runs a construction and handyman company, are looking to make extra cash while helping their neighbors.
"Be patient, call, ask for help,” said Michelle Lindsey. “Help your neighbors out especially the elderly, handicapped, anyone.”
While this winter storm has passed, residents here stand ready for the next snowfall.
“If the community comes together, we’ll be fine,” said resident Danny Armstrong.
