Chicago, IL – A dangerous winter storm is sweeping across the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic, bringing widespread freezing rain, sleet, and snow that could lead to hazardous travel conditions, power outages, and disruptions to daily life through Thursday.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS) and Weather Prediction Center (WPC), the storm will produce light to moderate ice accumulations across a broad swath of the country, with the heaviest icing expected in western Maryland, the West Virginia Panhandle, and parts of Pennsylvania. These areas face a 40-70% chance of accumulating more than 0.25 inches of ice, increasing the risk of power outages and tree damage.
Storm Impacts Across the Region
• Midwest:Light freezing rain and sleet are developing in Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio, making travel hazardous, especially on Interstates 70, 76, 80, and 90.
• Mid-Atlantic:Ice accumulations exceeding 0.25 inchesare possible in western Maryland, West Virginia, and southern Pennsylvania, leading to major disruptions and power outages.
• Great Lakes & Northeast:Snowfall of 4-8 inchesis expected in parts of Michigan, New York, and New England, with sleet and freezing rain mixing in.
Winter Weather Advisories & Ice Storm Warnings Issued
• Winter Weather Advisoriescover much of the Midwest, Mid-Atlantic, and Northeast, with Ice Storm Warningsin place for the hardest-hit areas.
• Travel will be especially dangerous along major highways and interstates, with black ice forming on roads, bridges, and overpasses.
Safety Precautions & Next Steps
• Avoid unnecessary travel, especially in high-impact areas.
• Prepare for power outagesby having flashlights, extra batteries, and non-perishable food.
• Check road conditionsbefore heading out using 511 servicesin your state.
The storm is expected to exit the East Coast by late Thursday, but lingering icy conditions will remain. Stay updated with local forecasts and weather.gov for the latest alerts.
