Winter Storms Bring Snow and Ice Across Multiple States
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) – Residents across several states are bracing for impactful winter storms as forecasters predict accumulating snow, sleet, and freezing rain starting Wednesday afternoon through Thursday morning.
The National Weather Service issued alerts indicating that northwestern and northern counties in Virginia will see an additional 2-4 inches of snow, with the potential for heavy snowfall at times. The precipitation is expected to shift to a wintry mix, including rain, sleet, and freezing rain, creating hazardous travel conditions.
“Heavy, wet snow may cause power outages due to the weight on trees and power lines,” warned a weather spokesperson. “Travelers should remain alert to potential icy spots on roads and sidewalks due to the mix of precipitation throughout the storm.”
In areas designated in pink, the transition from snow to sleet is occurring earlier than forecasts predicted, reducing snow totals. Light ice accumulations are expected, particularly in regions west of Interstate 95, where just 0.1 to 0.25 inches of ice could accumulate late Wednesday night.
As the storm continues through the week, south of Petersburg, only rain is forecasted, while a cold front advancing from the north will plunge temperatures back into the low to mid-20s overnight.
Meanwhile, in the Pacific Northwest, the coldest air mass of the season is gripping Oregon and Washington, with temperatures expected to remain below normal as a weather system brings snow and freezing rain beginning Thursday. The east metro regions may experience wind gusts between 40 and 50 mph, adding to the severe conditions.
Forecasts predict that light snow will gradually intensify throughout Thursday with snowfall amounts ranging from half an inch to three inches by evening. An expected mix of snow, rain, and freezing rain poses challenges for the Thursday morning commute.
“This storm might lead to school delays and hazardous travel conditions. We urge everyone to have a plan in place,” said meteorologist Jenna Lee.
In Toledo, Ohio, a First Alert Weather Day has been issued ahead of accumulating snow and ice expected to impact the region on February 12. Snow, sleet, and freezing rain are likely to begin early Wednesday, becoming heavy during the evening hours.
Snow totals are expected to reach approximately 2-5 inches in northwestern Ohio, with the highest accumulations in southeastern Michigan, according to local meteorologists. Ice accumulations are projected to be heaviest southeast of the Maumee River, with some areas potentially seeing over 0.2 inches.
“This could be the most significant winter storm we’ve had this season,” noted WTVG‘s chief meteorologist. “The low temperatures will make it difficult for road crews to manage the storm. Wednesday evening and Thursday morning commutes will likely be severely impacted.”
Given the multiple storms forecasted over the coming weeks, including possible arctic conditions, residents are advised to stay tuned for weather updates and to be prepared for additional travel disruptions.
