Indianapolis, IN – After a series of above-average days this December, Central Indiana experienced a brief cooldown following the passage of a cold front Saturday. While the front brought a noticeable shift in the weather, temperatures dropped only modestly, offering a temporary break before the region warms again for the holiday season.
Meteorologists say the forecast points to normal temperatures for Sunday, followed by a warming trend leading into Christmas Day, with record-close highs expected in Indianapolis.
Cold Front Passes, Clouds Visible 70 Miles Away
Weather observers noted that clouds associated with the passing cold front could be seen as far as 70 miles away, signaling the end of the brief cool spell. Sunday is expected to bring temperatures in the upper 30s to near 40°, accompanied by widespread sunshine thanks to high-pressure systems settling over the area.
Despite the sunshine, forecasters caution that this will be short-lived, with skies returning to the more typical overcast appearance for late December throughout the week.
A Mostly Cloudy Week With Minor Rain Chances
The upcoming week is expected to feature mostly cloudy to overcast conditions, though temperatures will remain unusually mild for this time of year. Forecasters note a few rain chances late Monday and again on Christmas Eve, Wednesday, but overall precipitation is expected to be light.
Daily warming trends are forecast to continue, with Indianapolis temperatures surpassing 50° by Tuesday, signaling one of the mildest holiday periods in recent years.
Warm Christmas Day Could Near Record High
The peak of the warmth is expected on Christmas Day, Thursday, with a forecast high of 61° in Indianapolis. If this verifies, it would mark the fourth time in the last six years that a top-10 warm Christmas Day has occurred in the city.
The 61° high would come just three degrees shy of the 129-year-old record of 64°. Meteorologists note that while cloud cover may prevent a new record, reaching 60° is attainable given breezy southwest winds forecast for the day.
Post-Holiday Weather Outlook
Following Christmas, Friday looks dry and mild, but indications suggest a post-holiday front could move through the region sometime next weekend. Even with the front, polar air is expected to remain north, meaning the final days of 2025 will likely remain mild and snow-free.
Experts do not anticipate any major cold snaps or snowfall for the foreseeable future, leaving Central Indiana with a relatively warm end to the year.
Summary of Forecast Highlights
- Sunday: Temperatures in the upper 30s to near 40°, mostly sunny
- Monday-Tuesday: Mild with highs surpassing 50°, mostly cloudy
- Christmas Eve (Wednesday): Light rain possible, mild
- Christmas Day (Thursday): High near 61°, breezy southwest winds
- Friday: Dry and mild
- Post-holiday weekend: Potential cold front, no major polar air expected
Residents are encouraged to enjoy the unseasonably warm weather but remain prepared for typical December cloud cover and brief rain chances in the week ahead.
Are you ready for a warmer-than-usual Christmas in Indianapolis? Will you be spending time outdoors, or does the cooler, cloudy weather keep you inside? Share your plans and thoughts in the comments below and join the conversation.
