Lafayette is currently in that classic Indiana "what planet is this?" mode where the thermometer says one thing and your frozen nose says something completely different. Honestly, if you stepped outside today, January 15, 2026, you've probably already felt that weird, biting chill that somehow makes 23°F feel like a walk through a meat locker.
It’s bone-cold.
Right now, the mercury is sitting at that 23°F mark, but with the south wind kicking up at 9 mph, the feels-like temperature is a stinging 14°F. That's the stuff that makes you question why we live in the Midwest. The sky is completely blanketed in clouds, and we’re looking at a 10% chance of snow as the night rolls on. It’s a typical Thursday night in Tippecanoe County, where the humidity is hanging out at 56% and the UV index is effectively nonexistent at 0.
Breaking Down the Lafayette Indiana Weather Report
If you’re planning the rest of your week, don’t put the heavy parka away yet. We’re in a bit of a transition period. Friday, January 16, is going to be messy. We’re looking at a high of 37°F and a low of 26°F, which sounds warmer until you see the forecast for rain and snow. The humidity is going to spike to 68%, and the wind is picking up too, gusting from the southwest at 17 mph.
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Basically, it's going to be slush city.
The Weekend Outlook (and It’s a Cold One)
The weekend isn't exactly bringing a tropical breeze. Saturday, January 17, is going to drop back down to a high of 25°F with light snow during the day. By the time the sun goes down, it’ll be a crisp 16°F. If you’re heading out to the Sagamore Parkway or making a run to West Lafayette, watch out for slick spots.
Sunday, January 18, keeps the trend alive with more light snow and a low of 13°F.
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What’s Coming Next Week?
Brace yourself. Monday, January 19, is looking like the winner for "most miserable day of the month." We’re talking about a high of only 12°F and a low of 8°F. With a west wind at 19 mph, that wind chill is going to be brutal. If you’ve got outdoor chores or a long walk to the office, this is the day to double-up on the thermal layers.
Quick Forecast Glance:
- Tuesday (Jan 20): Mostly cloudy, high of 26°F, low of 9°F.
- Wednesday (Jan 21): Mostly cloudy, high of 35°F, low of 24°F.
- Thursday (Jan 22): Partly sunny, high of 33°F, low of 24°F.
Dealing With the "Lafayette Shiver"
Local experts and data from the National Weather Service often point out that Lafayette’s location in the Wabash Valley can lead to some localized "micro-climates," especially with wind speeds. When the wind comes off the flats and hits the river hills, it can feel much sharper than the official report suggests.
With wind chills frequently dipping into the single digits or even sub-zero territory over the next few days, it’s important to keep an eye on your pets and your pipes. Sub-zero wind chills as low as -10 degrees are possible late Sunday night into Tuesday.
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Honestly, the best move right now is to keep a "winter kit" in your car—blankets, some extra gloves, and maybe a bag of sand for traction. The roads around Battle Ground and Lafayette can get unpredictable when that rain-to-snow transition happens on Friday.
Actionable Next Steps for Lafayette Residents
- Check your tires: Cold snaps cause tire pressure to drop. Check yours before Monday’s deep freeze.
- Pet Safety: If the "feels like" temp is 14°F, it’s too cold for most dogs to stay outside for more than a few minutes.
- Friday Commute: Leave 15 minutes early tomorrow. That rain and snow mix at 37°F is the perfect recipe for "black ice" as temperatures fluctuate.
- Drip the Faucets: When we hit that 8°F low on Monday night, make sure your cabinets are open and your water is moving to prevent frozen pipes.
Stay warm out there, Lafayette. It's definitely a "second pot of coffee" kind of week.