Winter Weather Alert Heavy Snow Showers Forecasted with High Winds and Blowing Snow

Winter is making a strong statement this week with heavy snow showers, high winds, and blowing snow expected to impact the region. The forecast calls for significant snow accumulation, gusty winds, and challenging travel conditions. This post breaks down the upcoming weather, what to expect day by day, and how to prepare for the intense winter conditions ahead.

Heavy snow falling on a residential street with snow-covered trees

Afternoon and Evening Snow Showers Bring Major Accumulation

Starting this afternoon, snow showers will intensify, with periods of heavy snow expected between 1 pm and 3 pm. Winds from the west will blow at 18 to 20 mph, with gusts reaching up to 33 mph. These strong winds will cause blowing snow, reducing visibility and creating hazardous conditions on roads and sidewalks.

• Snow accumulation: Around 7 inches during the daytime.

• Temperature: High near 34°F.

• Wind: West wind 18 to 20 mph, gusts up to 33 mph.

• Precipitation chance: 100%.

  
  

As the evening progresses, snow showers will continue with the potential for heavy bursts. Temperatures will drop to around 26°F, and winds will remain strong, though slightly lighter than during the day.

• New snow accumulation: Around 8 inches overnight.

• Wind: West wind 11 to 16 mph, gusts up to 26 mph.

• Precipitation chance: 100%.

  
  

These conditions will create a thick blanket of snow by morning, making travel difficult and increasing the risk of power outages due to wind and snow load on trees and power lines.

Saturday’s Snow Showers and Wind Shift

Snow showers will continue into Saturday morning but should taper off by early afternoon. The snow is expected to be lighter, with only about an inch of new accumulation possible. Winds will decrease significantly, shifting to a lighter west wind at 3 to 8 mph.

• High temperature: Near 35°F.

• Precipitation chance: 80% before 1 pm.

• Snow accumulation: Around 1 inch possible.

  
  

Saturday night brings a slight chance of snow showers before 7 pm, then snow showers likely after 1 am. Winds will calm down initially but shift to southeast at 5 to 9 mph after midnight. Snow accumulation will be minimal, less than half an inch.

Transition to Rain and Mixed Precipitation on Sunday

Sunday’s weather will be a mix of rain and snow showers, with rain becoming dominant after 1 pm. This shift will bring some relief to snow accumulation but could create slippery conditions due to melting snow and ice.

• High temperature: Near 41°F.

• Wind: South wind 13 to 16 mph, gusts up to 31 mph.

• Precipitation chance: 90%.

  
  

Sunday night will see snow showers likely again, possibly mixed with rain early on, then turning to all snow after 1 am. Temperatures will drop to around 24°F, increasing the chance of icy roads overnight.

Snow-covered road with blowing snow reducing visibility

Early Week Weather: Snow Likely with Fluctuating Temperatures

Monday will bring partly sunny skies with a high near 30°F, offering a brief break from the snow. However, Monday night carries a chance of snow after 1 am, with mostly cloudy skies and a low around 18°F.

Tuesday looks colder and snowier, with snow likely throughout the day and a high near 33°F. The chance of precipitation remains high at 70%, so expect continued snow accumulation.

• Tuesday night: A chance of snow before 1 am, mostly cloudy, low near 18°F, 40% chance of precipitation.

  
  

Wednesday will be partly sunny with a high near 33°F, but snow showers may return at night with a 40% chance of precipitation and lows around 22°F.

Thursday continues the trend with snow showers likely and a high near 34°F, keeping winter conditions active.

Preparing for the Winter Weather

With heavy snow showers, strong winds, and blowing snow expected, preparation is key to staying safe and comfortable.

• Travel safety: Avoid unnecessary travel during heavy snow and blowing snow periods. If travel is essential, keep an emergency kit in your vehicle including blankets, food, water, and a flashlight.

• Home readiness: Stock up on essentials such as food, water, and medications. Ensure heating systems are working properly and have backup heating options if possible.

• Outdoor precautions: Secure loose outdoor items that could be blown away by gusty winds. Clear snow from walkways regularly to prevent ice buildup.

• Stay informed: Monitor local weather updates for changes in the forecast and any emergency alerts.

  
  

Snow-covered tree branches bending under heavy snow and wind

Final Thoughts on the Upcoming Winter Storm

This winter storm will bring significant snow accumulation combined with strong winds and blowing snow, creating hazardous conditions for several days. Staying informed and prepared will help you manage the challenges this weather brings. Keep safety a priority, limit travel during peak snow and wind periods, and take steps to protect your home and family.