Prepare for a Winter Wonderland: Heavy Snow Forecast and Cold Wind Chill this Week

Winter is about to make a strong entrance with heavy snow and biting cold wind chills expected throughout the week. If you live in or plan to visit areas affected by this forecast, it’s crucial to prepare for the upcoming weather conditions. Snowfall will be heavy at times, with total accumulations reaching significant depths, and wind chills dropping well below freezing. This post breaks down the forecast day by day and offers practical tips to help you stay safe, warm, and ready for the winter wonderland ahead.

Heavy snow accumulating on a residential street, creating a winter scene

What to Expect This Afternoon and Tonight

The snow will begin this afternoon late and could be heavy at times. Temperatures will hover near 11°F, but wind chill values will make it feel as cold as -5°F. An east wind blowing around 9 mph will add to the chill. The chance of precipitation is 100%, with a total daytime snow accumulation expected to reach around 8 inches.

Tonight, the snow will continue, again heavy at times, with temperatures dropping to around 11°F. Wind chill values will stay low, near -3°F. The east wind will ease to 5 to 9 mph before becoming calm after midnight. Expect an additional 6 inches of snow accumulation overnight.

Tips for This Period

• Dress in layers to protect against the cold and wind chill.

• Avoid unnecessary travel during heavy snowfall to reduce risk on slippery roads.

• Prepare your home by checking heating systems and insulating pipes.

• Keep emergency supplies like food, water, and blankets ready in case of power outages.

  
  

Monday and Monday Night: Snow Showers and Blowing Snow

Snow showers will continue on Monday, with areas experiencing blowing snow after 1 p.m. The high temperature will rise to near 20°F. Winds will be light and variable in the morning but will shift to the west at 6 to 11 mph. The chance of precipitation is 80%, with about an inch of new snow accumulation possible.

Monday night will bring more snow showers, mainly before 4 a.m., with temperatures dropping to around 7°F. Wind chill values could reach -3°F due to northwest winds blowing at 7 to 11 mph. The chance of precipitation remains high at 90%, with another inch of snow possible.

How to Stay Safe and Comfortable

• Drive cautiously as blowing snow can reduce visibility and create hazardous road conditions.

• Secure outdoor items that could be affected by strong winds.

• Check on neighbors, especially elderly or vulnerable individuals, to ensure they are prepared.

  
  

Blowing snow reducing visibility in an open rural area

Midweek Snow Showers and Fluctuating Temperatures

Tuesday will bring a chance of snow showers with mostly cloudy skies and a high near 16°F. Southwest winds will blow at 7 to 9 mph, and the chance of precipitation is 50%. Tuesday night will see snow showers mainly after 1 a.m., with lows around 8°F and an 80% chance of precipitation.

Wednesday will likely have snow showers mainly before 1 p.m., with mostly cloudy skies and a high near 18°F. The chance of precipitation is 60%. Wednesday night will see a lower chance of snow showers after 1 a.m., with mostly cloudy skies and a low near 5°F.

Preparing for Midweek Weather

• Keep your vehicle winter-ready with snow tires and emergency kits.

• Monitor weather updates as conditions can change quickly.

• Plan outdoor activities carefully to avoid exposure during snow showers.

  
  

Late Week Snow Showers and Cold Nights

Thursday will have a chance of snow showers with mostly cloudy skies and a high near 16°F. The chance of precipitation is 40%. Thursday night will also have a chance of snow showers, with mostly cloudy skies and a low near -1°F, and a 50% chance of precipitation.

Friday continues with a chance of snow showers, mostly cloudy skies, and a high near 13°F. The chance of precipitation is 40%. Friday night will have a chance of snow showers with mostly cloudy skies and a low near 1°F, with a 30% chance of precipitation.

Saturday looks to be mostly cloudy with a high near 17°F and no significant snow expected.

Tips for the End of the Week

• Prepare for cold nights by ensuring your heating system is functioning well.

• Use weatherproof clothing to stay dry and warm during snow showers.

• Keep sidewalks and driveways clear to prevent slips and falls.

  
  

Snow and frost covering tree branches in a cold winter setting

Final Thoughts on This Week’s Winter Weather

This week’s forecast calls for significant snowfall and cold wind chills that will impact daily life. Heavy snow accumulation, combined with wind chills as low as -5°F, means it’s essential to prepare your home, vehicle, and wardrobe for harsh winter conditions. Stay informed by checking local weather updates regularly and take precautions to stay safe on the roads and outdoors.