A powerful winter storm is sweeping across the Midwest, Northeast, and Great Lakes region, dumping 4 to 6 inches of snow, creating treacherous road conditions, and triggering weather alerts from Chicago to New York.
This storm, which began late Wednesday night, is delivering heavy snowfall, freezing rain, and strong winds, making travel hazardous and leading to widespread school closures, flight cancellations, and power outage risks. Forecasters warn that commuters should expect delays, icy roads, and dangerous conditions as the storm intensifies throughout Thursday.
Midwest Takes the First Hit – Heavy Snow and Whiteout Conditions
The storm first made landfall in the Midwest, with Chicago experiencing its most intense snowstorm of the season. Snowfall rates reached 1 inch per hour, leading to accumulations of at least 4 to 6 inches in several areas.
Key Midwest impacts:
- Chicago, Detroit, and Milwaukee: Heavy snow and whiteout conditions in some areas.
- State offices and schools closed due to dangerous travel conditions.
- Thundersnow reported in some locations, adding to the storm’s intensity.
- Flight delays and cancellations at major airports.
Northern Michigan: Lake-Effect Snow Adds to the Storm’s Strength
Michigan’s Lower Peninsula remains under winter weather advisories and storm warnings, with snow expected to continue through Thursday night. The National Weather Service warns that some areas could see up to 5 inches of total snowfall.
- Manistee and Benzie counties are under a winter weather advisory until 7 a.m. Thursday.
- Snow is expected to transition to lake-effect snow, bringing an additional 3 inches overnight.
- Gusty winds will create blowing snow and near-zero visibility on highways.
Travel across I-75 and U.S. 31 will be especially dangerous, and drivers are urged to avoid unnecessary travel until road crews can clear the snow.
New York’s Capital Region Braces for Snow and Ice
As the storm moves east, New York’s Capital Region is preparing for a messy mix of snow, sleet, and rain, making for a slippery and slow morning commute on Thursday.
- Saratoga, Schenectady, Washington, and Warren counties are under a winter weather advisory, expecting up to 4 inches of snow and a dangerous glaze of ice.
- Albany, Rensselaer, Columbia, and Greene counties will see a mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain, making roads especially slick and hazardous.
- Morning commuters should prepare for slow traffic, icy bridges, and dangerous road conditions before the storm transitions to rain.
Temperatures will rise into the upper 30s by the evening, which should help melt some of the snow and ice, but roads will likely refreeze overnight, creating black ice risks on Friday morning.
What This Means for Travel and Safety
This winter storm is causing widespread travel disruptions, and officials are urging drivers to take precautions as road conditions deteriorate.
Major highways, including I-90, I-75, and I-94, will see heavy snow and ice.
Black ice will form overnight, creating hidden dangers for morning drivers.
Strong winds will lead to blowing snow, reducing visibility to near zero in some areas.
For those traveling by air, airports in Chicago, Detroit, and New York are already reporting flight delays and cancellations, and conditions are expected to worsen throughout the day.
Power Outages a Major Concern as Ice Weighs Down Power Lines
One of the biggest concerns with this storm is freezing rain, which can coat trees and power lines in thick ice. This weight can cause branches and power lines to snap, leaving thousands without electricity.
How to prepare:
Charge all electronic devices and backup batteries in advance.
Stock up on flashlights, blankets, and non-perishable food.
Have an emergency kit ready in case of extended outages.
Utility companies are already preparing crews for emergency repairs, but restoring power in ice-covered areas could take hours or even days, depending on the severity of the damage.
How to Stay Safe in This Winter Storm
With heavy snow, freezing rain, and icy roads expected to last through Thursday night, it’s crucial to stay prepared and avoid unnecessary risks.
Limit travel – If possible, stay home until road conditions improve.
Check for road closures and weather alerts before heading out.
Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle, including blankets, food, and a flashlight.
Dress warmly in layers, and be prepared for bitter wind chills.
Stay updated by following local news and the National Weather Service for real-time alerts.
How Long Will This Storm Last?
The worst of the snow and ice will continue through Thursday evening, but lingering snow showers could persist into Friday morning.
Temperatures are expected to hover near freezing overnight, meaning roads could stay slick and icy for the Friday morning commute.
Forecasters are also tracking another winter storm for early next week, meaning this could just be the beginning of an active winter weather pattern.
