Ohio and Indiana – A Winter Storm Watch remains in effect for parts of central and west-central Ohio and east-central Indiana, with forecasters warning that a developing winter system could bring widespread accumulating snow this weekend and significantly impact travel.
According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, the storm is expected to move into the region early Saturday and persist into Sunday morning, with snow totals between 4 and 6 inches possible in the hardest-hit areas. While exact snowfall placement is still being refined, confidence is increasing that the system could create hazardous conditions across multiple counties.
Areas Included in the Winter Storm Watch
In Indiana, the watch currently includes Wayne County, affecting the Richmond area.
In Ohio, the Winter Storm Watch covers a broad region, including Clark, Madison, Franklin, Licking, Preble, Montgomery, Greene, Fayette, Pickaway, Fairfield, and Hocking counties. Major cities and communities within the watch area include Columbus, Dayton, Springfield, Newark, Lancaster, Circleville, Xenia, Fairborn, Beavercreek, Eaton, and Logan.
Residents in these locations are advised to begin preparing now, as conditions could deteriorate quickly once snowfall begins.
What Forecasters Are Saying
Meteorologists at the National Weather Service say the watch reflects growing confidence in a winter storm capable of producing impactful snowfall. While a watch does not guarantee severe weather, it indicates that hazardous winter conditions are possible and that residents should stay alert for updates.
If the system strengthens as projected, periods of heavier snow could lead to snow-covered roads, reduced visibility, and slick travel conditions, particularly during peak travel times over the weekend.
Travel Impacts Could Be Significant
Forecasters warn that travel may become very difficult at times, especially during bursts of heavier snowfall. Untreated roads could quickly become slick, and visibility may drop rapidly during snow showers.
Weekend travel, local events, and deliveries could all be affected across the region. Drivers are urged to allow extra time, reduce speeds, and avoid unnecessary travel if conditions worsen.
Those planning to travel should also monitor updates closely, as even small changes in storm track or temperature could affect snowfall totals and road conditions.
How to Prepare Ahead of the Storm
Emergency officials recommend using the time before the storm arrives to prepare both vehicles and households for winter conditions.
Drivers should ensure their vehicles are equipped with winter emergency supplies, including:
- Blankets or warm clothing
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Food and water
- Phone charger
- Shovel and ice scraper
Residents should also check heating systems, ensure medications are refilled, and secure outdoor items that could become buried or difficult to access during snowfall.
Understanding a Winter Storm Watch
A Winter Storm Watch means that significant winter weather is possible, but details such as exact snowfall totals, timing, and impacts are still uncertain. As the storm draws closer, the watch may be upgraded to a Winter Storm Warning or downgraded to a Winter Weather Advisory, depending on how the forecast evolves.
Officials stress that now is the time to prepare, not wait until snow is already falling.
More Updates Expected Soon
Meteorologists will continue refining the forecast over the next 24 to 48 hours as newer data becomes available. Additional alerts or changes to the watch area may be issued as confidence increases.
Residents across Ohio and Indiana are encouraged to stay informed through official weather updates and local emergency management channels as the weekend approaches.
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