FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Boone County Road Crews Battling Severe Winter Conditions; Public Urged to Stay Home
(LEBANON, IN January 25, 2026) Boone County road conditions continue to deteriorate as highway crews battle heavy snowfall, strong winds, and dangerously cold temperatures across the county.
County Commissioner Scott Pell rode with a Boone County plow truck earlier this afternoon and witnessed the conditions firsthand. In several areas, drifting snow has reached depths of three to four feet, making travel hazardous and, in some cases, impossible.
“It’s all hands on deck to get these roads cleared, but they’re fighting a losing battle right now,” Pell said, noting that ongoing snowfall combined with high winds is rapidly undoing progress made by crews.
The Boone County Highway Department currently has 22 large trucks and graders on the roads, supported by four one-ton pickup trucks. Crews are working 12-hour shifts in an effort to keep primary routes open and respond as conditions allow.
“We’re fighting the big three: lots of snow, wind, and extremely cold temperatures,” Pell said of the challenges facing highway crews.
According to both Pell and highway personnel, snowfall has been especially heavy south of County Road 500 South. However, road conditions throughout Boone County are poor, with several roads already impassable due to drifting and limited visibility.
As night approaches, Pell and highway officials are strongly urging residents to stay home and avoid unnecessary travel. Allowing roads to remain clear of traffic will give crews the best opportunity to make headway as snowfall is expected to taper off later this evening and overnight.
“If someone goes out and gets stranded, that creates more problems for both the Highway Department and the Sheriff’s Department, which slows down plowing even further,” Pell said.
County officials will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates as crews work through the storm.
Boone County is currently under an Orange Travel Status which mean that conditions are threatening to the safety of the public. During a “watch” local travel advisory, only essential travel, such as to and from work or in emergency situations, is recommended, and emergency action plans should be implemented by businesses, schools, government agencies and other organizations.
