5 Indiana counties issue travel warnings, 6 issue watches

KNOX, Ind. (AP) - Five counties in northern Indiana have issued travel warnings because blowing and drifting snow are creating whiteout conditions.

LaPorte, Starke, Marshall, Fulton and Kosciusko counties are telling residents to stay off the roads. Porter, St. Joseph, Elkhart, Pulaski, Miami and Wabash counties have issued travel watches. The Indiana Department of Homeland Security says a watch means weather conditions are threatening to the safety of the public and only essential travel, such as to and from work or in emergency situations, is recommended.

More than a dozen other counties have issued travel advisories, meaning routine travel or activities may be restricted in areas because of hazardous conditions and individuals should use caution.