Support Us Button Widget

Remembering Indy’s coldest day on record

Indy’s coldest day on record was Jan. 19, 1994 when the city hit -27°.

INDYtoday: INDY_coldest day Jan. 19 1994 Indianapolis Star_JAN25

Talk about the dead of winter.

Newsclipping courtesy of Indianapolis Star

There’s no getting around it: It’s cold, Indy.

With another arctic blast upon us, we’re staying inside and looking back at some of the headlines on the coldest day the Circle City has ever had.

The day the cold set records

Indy’s coldest day on record took place on Jan. 19, 1994 when temperatures hit a record-breaking -27°. Imagine that with wind chill... brrrr.

That sure puts this weather in perspective, huh? The closest we’ve come to that temperature this year so far was when temps got to 5° on Jan. 9.

What the headlines said

So, what else was going on in Indy on the coldest day on record? It was a harsh week for natural disasters across the country. Our newspapers continued to report on Los Angeles’ Northridge earthquake, which happened on Jan. 17, 1994 and killed 57 people.

The papers also covered the intense weather we were having at the time — reminding Hoosiers that while we had it bad, it could always be worse, with northern Michigan reporting wind chills of -70°.

How to weather the weather today

Ok, so we’re not breaking records (yet), but that doesn’t mean braving this weather is easy. Thankfully, we have plenty of world-class museums you can explore for a fun day indoors, or some incredibly tasty soups you can order for delivery if leaving the house isn’t the vibe.

Don’t forget to check in on our city’s inclement weather resources and take a peek at what the rest of the season has in store for us. Who knows, maybe this will be a record-breaking year after all.

More from INDYtoday
It’s the sweetest night of the year — make sure it doesn’t turn sour by visiting these neighborhoods known for great candy and friendly streets.
Our nearby neighbor is filled with outdoor adventures, cozy cafes, and shopping — and is especially popular in the fall, thanks to its small-town charm and autumnal colors.
From “coffee, coffee, coffee” to chilaquiles and everything in between, here are a few ways to pay homage to “Gilmore Girls” in Indy this autumn.
Don’t be afraid. Concerns about everything from flood damage to environmental health can be solved by getting in touch not with the Ghostbusters, but with these Indy resources.
Here’s a breakdown of where Indy’s money will be spent this upcoming year.
Check out these restaurants, cafes, and diners serving all the omelets, mimosas, and waffles you need to start your day on the right foot.
We’re highlighting 14 parks that Indianapolis has to offer — complete with Eagle Creek, Holliday Park, and Garfield Park.
Whether you’re a foodie, fitness fiend, fledgling costume designer, or live music fanatic, Irvington’s annual Halloween festival has a way for you to get into the holiday spirit.
Looking for something to do on fall break without going too far? It’s a great time to go camping. Here are a few spots around central Indiana that we recommend.
Need a showstopping fit for Halloween — or any other holiday or themed party? Check out these locally owned costume shops where you’re likely to find your dream getup.