Washington, D.C. – The National Weather Service has issued multiple winter storm warnings and advisories as a strong cold front moves across the United States, bringing heavy snowfall, lake-effect snow, and damaging wind gusts to large portions of the country. According to the National Weather Service, conditions will be especially dangerous downwind of the Great Lakes and across parts of Alaska through midweek.
Great Lakes Region Braces for Lake-Effect Snow
Forecasters say the incoming cold front will create ideal conditions for lake-effect snow across the Great Lakes region. Winter Weather Advisories are in effect downwind of Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, Lake Ontario, and Lake Erie through Wednesday into Thursday morning.
The National Weather Service warned that rapidly falling temperatures combined with strong winds could significantly reduce visibility, making travel hazardous during peak commute hours.
Michigan Faces Another Round of Heavy Snow
Michigan, still recovering from a recent storm that buried parts of the Upper Peninsula under several feet of snow, is once again preparing for dangerous winter weather.
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning for portions of southwest Michigan and far northwest Indiana. Forecasters expect 6 to 8 inches of snow, accompanied by wind gusts reaching 40 mph, creating blowing snow and treacherous road conditions.
Officials warn that travel in affected areas could become extremely difficult, especially during Wednesday evening and Thursday morning.
Alaska Under Multiple Winter Weather Warnings
Alaska is also facing significant winter impacts as a compact low-pressure system moves from the Bering Sea toward the Aleutian Islands.
According to the National Weather Service, bands of snow will spread to Adak and Atka as the system tracks slowly across the region. The storm is expected to stall south of the Aleutians, resulting in a prolonged period of snow and blowing snow.
Winds could reach 60 mph, particularly Wednesday night, with Atka expected to receive the brunt of the storm. Snow totals are forecast to vary by island, but conditions are expected to remain hazardous through Thursday.
Nine Additional States Under Winter Weather Advisories
Beyond Michigan and Alaska, winter weather advisories have been issued for nine other states as the cold front pushes east and south.
Indiana
Northern Indiana is expected to see 2 to 6 inches of lake-effect snow, with the highest totals in western Cass County. Northwest wind gusts may reach 35 mph.
Illinois
Snow accumulations of 2 to 5 inches are expected in parts of Illinois. Bitterly cold temperatures will follow the front, impacting outdoor activities and travel.
Maryland
A strong cold front is forecast to cross Maryland late Wednesday, bringing 2 to 3 inches of snow. Snow may begin mixing with rain at higher elevations before transitioning to more impactful snowfall Wednesday night.
Minnesota
Additional snowfall of up to 2 inches is expected in northern Minnesota, with wind gusts reaching 35 mph, contributing to reduced visibility.
New York
The Buffalo office of the National Weather Service reports continued lake-effect snow, with 5 to 10 inches possible, especially on the Tug Hill Plateau and in northern Oswego County. Snow is expected to intensify Wednesday night before transitioning to localized lake-effect bands.
Ohio
The Ohio Department of Transportation and Ohio Turnpike officials are urging drivers to delay unnecessary travel. Lake-effect snow totals of 2 to 5 inches are expected, creating slick roadways.
Pennsylvania
In Warren, Pennsylvania, residents are advised to prepare for 2 to 4 inches of snow, which could impact both Wednesday evening and Thursday morning commutes.
Tennessee
Parts of Tennessee, including the Smoky Mountains, may see 2 to 4 inches of snow, with up to 6 inches at elevations above 5,000 feet. Wind gusts could reach 40 mph, increasing the risk of hazardous driving conditions.
West Virginia
Higher elevations in West Virginia could receive up to 6 inches of snow, with wind gusts approaching 40 mph. Wind chills may drop to 10 degrees below zero, particularly above 3,500 feet, leading to blowing and drifting snow.
Travel Conditions Expected to Deteriorate
Weather officials across affected regions are strongly discouraging unnecessary travel. The Marquette, Michigan office of the National Weather Service warned that blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility and impact multiple commute periods.
Indiana officials echoed the concern, advising motorists to slow down, use caution, and remain alert for rapidly changing road and weather conditions, especially during lake-effect snow events where conditions can vary dramatically over short distances.
Authorities continue to monitor the system closely and urge residents to stay informed as conditions evolve.
