Heads up, Ohio and northwest Pennsylvania! A wintry mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain is heading our way midweek, and it’s got all the ingredients to make roads slick, commutes messy, and sidewalks icy. Whether you’re planning to hit the road or stay cozy at home, here’s what you need to know to get through the next few days safely.
What’s Happening?
A winter storm system is rolling through, bringing cold air and moisture together in just the right (or wrong) combination. That means snow first, then freezing rain and sleet, creating a slippery layer of ice that’s perfect for making you wish you stayed in bed. It’s not a monster storm, but it’s enough to cause some serious headaches.
What to Expect in Ohio:
🌨️ Wednesday, February 12:
- The day starts off mostly cloudy, but by the afternoon, light rain or freezing rain could begin to develop, especially around Cleveland and central Ohio.
- Temperatures will reach 39°F (4°C) during the day and drop to 29°F (-1°C) overnight, just cold enough for rain to freeze on contact.
❄️ Thursday, February 13:
- Snow showers in the morning could bring 1 to 3 cm of accumulation, just enough to make roads slick.
- Expect a windy, colder day with highs around 32°F (0°C) and lows dipping to 17°F (-8°C) by night. Blowing snow could make visibility an issue.
What to Expect in Northwest Pennsylvania:
🌧️ Wednesday, February 12:
- Erie and surrounding areas will see cloudy skies and occasional snow or sleet by the afternoon.
- Temperatures will hit a high of 36°F (2°C) but drop to 32°F (0°C) overnight, so expect icy conditions to develop after sunset.
🌨️ Thursday, February 13:
- Intermittent snow and rain in the morning could leave up to 1 cm of accumulation.
- It’ll be breezy and cold, with highs around 39°F (4°C) and lows plunging to 17°F (-9°C) by night.
Why You Should Care:
-
Slippery Roads and Sidewalks
The mix of freezing rain and snow means roads will get icy fast. Bridges, overpasses, and untreated sidewalks are especially dangerous, so don’t rush if you’re heading out. -
Reduced Visibility
Blowing snow could make it hard to see on the roads, especially in open areas or along highways. If you’re driving, expect slower commutes and delays. -
Power Outages Possible
Freezing rain can build up on trees and power lines, and when that happens, branches snap and power outages follow. Be prepared with backup supplies just in case.
How to Stay Safe:
🚗 Driving Tips:
- If you don’t need to drive, stay home. But if you have to, take it slow and leave extra space between you and the car in front of you.
- Watch for black ice, especially on bridges and overpasses.
- Keep an emergency kit in your car with blankets, water, snacks, a flashlight, and a phone charger.
🏠 Prep Your Home:
- Stock up on groceries and essentials so you don’t have to run out in bad weather.
- Charge your devices and have flashlights and extra batteries ready in case the power goes out.
- Protect your pipes from freezing by keeping your thermostat consistent and letting faucets drip overnight if needed.
🐶 Don’t Forget About Your Pets:
- Bring pets inside or make sure they have a warm, dry shelter.
- Check that their water bowls haven’t frozen over, especially if they’re outdoors for any length of time.
What to Watch Out For:
Frostbite Symptoms:
- Numbness or tingling, especially in fingers, toes, ears, or nose
- Pale or blue skin
- A hard, waxy feeling
Hypothermia Symptoms:
- Shivering that won’t stop
- Confusion or slurred speech
- Fatigue or stumbling
If you or someone you’re with experiences these symptoms, get indoors and warm up immediately. Seek medical attention if needed.
When Will Things Calm Down?
The worst of the storm should pass by Thursday night, but cold temperatures will stick around, keeping any snow or ice that falls firmly in place. Friday morning’s commute could still be icy, so don’t let your guard down just yet.
This storm isn’t something to panic over, but it’s definitely one to take seriously. If you can stay off the roads, do it. If you must go out, give yourself extra time, drive slowly, and stay updated on the latest weather reports.
