Omaha, NE — A long and expansive winter storm system is sweeping across the northern and central United States this weekend, triggering Winter Storm Warnings and Winter Weather Advisories from the northern Rockies through the Great Lakes and into the Mid-Atlantic.
Broad Winter System Spans the Nation
According to the National Weather Service, the system forms a continuous snow band impacting more than a dozen states, with conditions varying widely by region. Forecasters describe it as a “long-duration winter weather event stretching from Montana through Pennsylvania”, with snowfall totals, wind, and ice combining to create hazardous travel conditions in multiple areas.
Snow continues Friday night across parts of Montana, North Dakota, and South Dakota, where advisories extend into Saturday morning. The NWS reports “widespread totals of 1 to 5 inches across the northern High Plains”, with blowing snow significantly reducing visibility at times. In western Montana, forecasters warn that “light icing is possible in higher elevations, especially near Marias Pass.”
Midwest Braces for Saturday Snow and Bitter Cold
Farther east, a large portion of the central Plains and Midwest will see increasing impacts on Saturday. Iowa, Nebraska, Missouri, and Illinois remain under widespread advisories, with expected snowfall of “2 to 5 inches across much of the region.”
Meteorologists also caution that cold air trailing behind the snow could bring dangerous conditions overnight. Parts of Missouri and Iowa may experience “sub-zero wind chills Saturday night,” increasing the risk of frostbite and travel disruptions. In Illinois, localized higher totals are possible near U.S. Route 24 and Illinois Route 17, where heavier snow bands may develop.
Heavier Snow Targets the Ohio Valley and Appalachians
Snow is forecast to intensify Saturday afternoon across Indiana, Ohio, and Kentucky, continuing into early Sunday. Accumulations are expected to range from “1 to 6 inches depending on location and timing.”
West Virginia and western Pennsylvania are likely to see the most significant snowfall. The NWS indicates “3 to 10 inches are possible, with the highest totals in ridge-top counties such as Fayette, Randolph, and Pocahontas.” Officials also note that “lake-effect snow may extend hazardous travel into Monday morning” across northern Ohio and western Pennsylvania.
Northeast and Mid-Atlantic Also Affected
The eastern edge of the storm reaches parts of New Jersey, Delaware, and southeast New York late Saturday through Sunday. Advisories remain in effect for these areas, with “2 to 4 inches of snow expected” and slick roads likely, particularly during overnight and early morning hours.
Widespread Impacts Expected
Because of the storm’s sheer size and duration, officials warn that it could interfere with weekend work shifts, student travel, and scheduled holiday events across multiple regions. Transportation agencies urge drivers to prepare for rapidly changing conditions and reduced visibility.
Conclusion
This expansive winter storm is affecting a broad swath of the country, bringing snow, wind, and cold from the Rockies to the Northeast. With varying impacts across regions and lingering effects possible into Monday, residents are advised to remain alert and stay informed through local National Weather Service updates and state transportation alerts.
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