Columbus, OH — A widespread Winter Storm Warning has been issued across parts of Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Kentucky, and West Virginia as a strong winter system is expected to bring heavy snow, reduced visibility, and hazardous travel conditions through the weekend.
Heavy Snow Expected Across Multiple States
The National Weather Service reports that multiple forecast offices are monitoring a developing storm system that will impact a broad corridor from the Midwest into the central Appalachians. Warnings begin as early as Saturday afternoon and extend into Sunday, with some higher-elevation areas seeing impacts linger into early Monday.
According to the NWS, “southeast Indiana, northern Kentucky, and southwest to central Ohio are forecast to receive 3 to 5 inches of snow” between Saturday afternoon and early Sunday morning. Snowfall rates may intensify during the evening hours as colder air deepens across the region.
Higher Totals Possible in Eastern Ohio and Pennsylvania
Farther east, snowfall totals are expected to increase significantly. The NWS Pittsburgh office warns that “6 to 10 inches of snow” could fall across eastern Ohio, western and southwest Pennsylvania, and the northern panhandle of West Virginia by early Sunday afternoon.
Forecasters note that “localized higher totals are possible within stronger snow bands,” particularly where snowfall rates approach one inch per hour.
Additional Areas Under Winter Storm Warnings
Winter Storm Warnings also extend into central and southern Ohio, parts of West Virginia, and surrounding regions north and south of the main storm track. In these areas, the NWS expects “snow totals ranging from 4 to 10 inches”, with longer-lasting impacts in higher terrain where snow may continue into late Sunday or early Monday.
The NWS cautions that “visibility may drop below one-quarter mile in heavier bursts,” creating near-whiteout conditions at times.
Travel Conditions Likely to Deteriorate Quickly
Transportation officials and weather agencies are urging residents to prepare for rapidly changing road conditions. Snow-covered roads, slick bridges, and untreated overpasses could become hazardous shortly after sunset Saturday.
The NWS warns that “road conditions may deteriorate rapidly during the evening hours”, especially in areas experiencing heavier snow bands. Drivers are encouraged to delay non-essential travel and allow extra time if travel is unavoidable.
Impacts on Weekend Plans and Schedules
The varying start and end times of the warnings may affect weekend commuters, service workers, and students across the region. Snow is expected to continue into Sunday morning in several locations, potentially disrupting early travel plans.
Residents are advised to monitor updates from local National Weather Service offices and state road condition portals as the storm evolves.
Conclusion
This weekend’s winter storm has the potential to bring significant snowfall across a large portion of the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic, with totals ranging from several inches to nearly a foot in some areas. With hazardous travel conditions likely, preparation and caution will be key as the storm unfolds.
Are you under a Winter Storm Warning in your area? How much snow are you expecting where you live? Share your local conditions and plans in the comments below.