Weather service issues winter weather advisory for Indiana

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) - The Indiana Department of Homeland Security is urging residents to prepare for a storm that could bring snow through much of the state, with a potential for a mix of sleet and freezing rain in southern Indiana on Saturday night.

The National Weather Service has issued a winter weather advisory, estimating 4 to 7 inches of snow is possible in central areas of the state and 1 to 2 inches in the south.

Homeland Security officials says drivers should carefully consider if travel is necessary, especially if roads become hazardous.

The department says winter weather, especially ice, can cause power outages and residents should be prepared to take action. It recommends charging cell phones, laptops and any other battery-operated accessories to ensure maximum battery life in case power is lost.