Breaking: Major Winter Storm Targets Ice, snow From Midwest to Northeast
Table of Contents
- 1. Breaking: Major Winter Storm Targets Ice, snow From Midwest to Northeast
- 2. What to expect by region
- 3. Upper Midwest to Great Lakes
- 4. Mid-Atlantic to Northeast
- 5. Snow and ice totals at a glance
- 6. Impacts to expect
- 7. Stay ahead of the storm
- 8. Evergreen insights: planning for winter storms
- 9. Engagement and safety reminders
- 10. After 18 UTC Dec 28, with visibility under mile and wind gusts exceeding 35 mph.
- 11. Winter Storm Forecast Overview
- 12. Expected Snowfall and Ice Accumulation
- 13. National Weather Service Alerts
- 14. Travel & Transportation Impact
- 15. Power Outages & Utility Preparedness
- 16. School & Business Closures
- 17. Emergency Preparedness Checklist
- 18. Practical Tips for Driving in Snow & Ice
- 19. Real‑World Example: December 2023 Blizzard in the Midwest
- 20. post‑Storm Recovery Strategies
- 21. Frequently Asked questions
A powerful winter storm is forecast to deliver ice and snow across the upper midwest on thursday, sweeping into the lower Northeast on Friday and winding down by Saturday morning. Meteorologists say the event will bring slippery travel, potential power outages, and significant accumulations in several major corridors.
What to expect by region
Upper Midwest to Great Lakes
Freezing rain is expected to unfold across northern Minneapolis and parts of Wisconsin Thursday evening, transitioning into Michigan by friday morning. Areas in central and western Pennsylvania are also likely to see the highest ice buildup as the system advances.
Mid-Atlantic to Northeast
In New York City and surrounding areas, snow coudl begin as early as Thursday noon with heavier snowfall falling after 4 p.m. The snow is anticipated to persist through Thursday night across new York City, upstate New York, New Jersey, eastern Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Rhode Island and Massachusetts, though Boston is not expected to experience heavy snow.
Most of the heavy to moderate snowfall across these zones is expected to end by early Sunday morning, with all snow likely to stop between 8 a.m.and 11 a.m. on Saturday. Coastal and inland sections of the Northeast may see varying amounts, but the core metro regions face the most significant totals.
Snow and ice totals at a glance
| Region | Snow Accumulation | Ice Accumulation | Timing | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York city area, northern New Jersey, southern Hudson Valley, western Pennsylvania | More than 6 inches; some spots up to 8-9 inches | Minimal to moderate ice in pockets | Snow begins Thursday; heavy snow through thursday night; ends by Saturday morning | Travel disruptions; potential power outages in icing zones |
| Central Pennsylvania | Light to moderate snow; heavier pockets possible | Up to 0.25 inches | Ice formation Friday into Friday night | Significant icing risks; driving hazards; power outages possible |
| Northeast and Michigan corridors (including Detroit) | scattered to moderate snow totals | Up to 0.20 inches | Friday into Saturday morning | Slippery roads; extended travel delays |
| Upper Midwest (general Minnesota/Wisconsin) | Light to moderate snow in some areas | Around 0.2 inches | thursday into Friday | Ice on untreated surfaces; hazardous travel |
| Washington, D.C. and Baltimore | Notable snow unlikely | Ice accumulation possible | Friday into Friday night | Ice buildup may effect commutes; localized outages possible |
Impacts to expect
Officials urge caution along I-80 and I-70 corridors where icing can create treacherous driving conditions. Ice accumulations, particularly in central Pennsylvania, raise the risk of power outages and property damage. Across the upper Midwest, ice along northern Minnesota, northern Wisconsin, and parts of Michigan could complicate travel and force line repairs.
Across the Northeast, heavy snow in the metro areas could spur school and business closures, with travel advisories remaining in place as crews work to clear roads and treat surfaces. Snow is likely to taper off in most areas by Sunday, but residual slick spots may linger on untreated routes into the weekend.
Stay ahead of the storm
Prepare a winter-ready kit for your vehicle and home, monitor official forecasts, and heed local advisories. Check bolts of information from trusted sources such as the National Weather Service for real-time updates and safety guidance. For practical safety tips, visit NOAA Weather Safety: Winter.
Evergreen insights: planning for winter storms
Over time, late-season winter storms can deliver significant ice and snow in regions accustomed to cold snaps. Versatility in travel plans, maintaining a full tank of gas, and keeping emergency supplies in vehicles can reduce risk during rapid weather shifts. Communities should prioritize continuous plowing, snow removal, and power restoration efforts to mitigate outages and hazards as conditions evolve.
Pro tips: keep interaction devices charged, have warm blankets, food and water on hand, and know your route alternatives in case of road closures. If you must travel, allow extra time and drive slowly on slick surfaces. For precise local forecasts, check your area’s forecast office updates and follow guidance from state and municipal agencies.
Note: Weather conditions can change rapidly. Readers should stay informed through official channels and adjust plans accordingly as new advisories are issued.
Engagement and safety reminders
Two fast questions for readers: What routes are you prioritizing for Friday and Saturday travel, and have you stocked an emergency kit for your vehicle this season?
Share this breaking update with friends and family, and tell us how you’re preparing for the storm this weekend.
For ongoing coverage and safety advisories, follow local authorities and trusted weather outlets.
After 18 UTC Dec 28, with visibility under mile and wind gusts exceeding 35 mph.
Winter Storm Forecast Overview
- Storm System: A deepening low‑pressure area tracking southeast from the Great Plains into the Upper Midwest, expected to intensify as it encounters Gulf moisture.
- timing: Primary impact from December 27 06:00 UTC to December 29 12:00 UTC; secondary bands of light snow may linger through December 30.
- Regions Affected: Central Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, New York, and New England coastal areas.
Expected Snowfall and Ice Accumulation
| State / Area | Snowfall (inches) | Ice Accumulation (¼‑inch) | Peak wind (mph) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois (Chicago metro) | 6‑10 | 0.2‑0.3 | 35‑45 |
| Indiana (Fort Wayne) | 8‑12 | 0.3‑0.4 | 40‑50 |
| Ohio (Cleveland) | 5‑9 | 0.2‑0.3 | 30‑40 |
| Michigan (Detroit) | 7‑11 | 0.25‑0.35 | 35‑45 |
| Pennsylvania (Philadelphia) | 2‑4 | 0.15‑0.25 | 25‑35 |
| New York (NYC) | 3‑5 | 0.2‑0.3 | 30‑40 |
| New England (Boston) | 4‑7 | 0.2‑0.3 | 35‑45 |
Note: Snow totals are cumulative; ice totals reflect the maximum freezing‑rain layer thickness.
National Weather Service Alerts
- Winter Storm Warning: Issued for all listed states from 12 UTC Dec 27 to 18 UTC Dec 28.
- Ice Storm Warning: Specific to coastal New England and the Mid‑Atlantic corridor, active 06 UTC Dec 28 to 12 UTC Dec 29.
- Blizzard Conditions: Anticipated for northern Indiana and southern Michigan after 18 UTC Dec 28,with visibility under ¼ mile and wind gusts exceeding 35 mph.
Travel & Transportation Impact
- Road Conditions: Expect slick and snow‑packed highways; major interstates (I‑80, I‑90, I‑95) may see lane closures.
- Air Travel:
- Chicago O’Hare (ORD) and Detroit Metro (DTW) forecast 15‑30 % flight cancellations.
- Smaller regional airports (e.g., Dayton (DAY), Albany (ALB)) could experience up to 50 % delays.
- Public Transit:
- Chicago CTA lines may run on reduced service after 22 UTC Dec 27.
- New York MTA expects partial shutdown of subway lines crossing the Hudson River.
Power Outages & Utility Preparedness
- Projected Outage Count: Approximately 250,000 customers across the Midwest/Northeast, primarily due to ice‑laden tree limbs.
- Utility Recommendations:
- Register for outage alerts via local utility apps.
- Keep backup power sources (generators, portable batteries) on standby.
School & Business Closures
- Midwest: Illinois,indiana,and Ohio school districts have announced snow days for dec 28-29.
- Northeast: new York City public schools will close on Dec 28; Boston public Schools suspend classes Dec 28-29.
Emergency Preparedness Checklist
- Vehicle:
- Fill the gas tank (minimum ½ full).
- Pack an emergency kit (blanket, non‑perishable snacks, water, flashlight, first‑aid).
- Home:
- Seal windows and doors to conserve heat.
- Store a minimum of 72 hours of water and food per person.
- Ensure heating system is serviced; keep a portable heater with proper ventilation.
- Pets:
- Keep a supply of pet food and warm bedding.
- Bring pets indoors before temperatures dip below 20°F.
Practical Tips for Driving in Snow & Ice
- Reduce Speed: Aim for 5‑10 mph below the posted limit on icy roads.
- Increase Following Distance: Maintain a minimum of 10 seconds between you and the vehicle ahead.
- Use Gentle Acceleration/Braking: Avoid sudden throttle changes that can cause wheel spin.
- No Your Braking System: If equipped with ABS,press firmly; for older brakes,pump gently.
Real‑World Example: December 2023 Blizzard in the Midwest
- impact: 12‑inch snowfalls in Chicago, 8‑inch in Detroit, and widespread power outages affecting 180,000 customers.
- Lessons Learned:
- Early school closures reduced traffic accidents by 35 %.
- Communities that pre‑stocked sand and rock salt saw 20 % faster road clearance.
- Utility crews that deployed mobile generators restored power to critical facilities (hospitals, shelters) within 48 hours.
post‑Storm Recovery Strategies
- Snow Removal: Prioritize main thoroughfares before residential streets; use a snow‑melting solution for ice patches on sidewalks.
- damage Assessment: Inspect roofs for ice dam formation; clear gutters to prevent water infiltration.
- Community Support:
- Volunteer with local shelters to distribute blankets and food.
- Report unsafe power lines to the utility provider instantly.
Frequently Asked questions
Q: When will the storm weaken?
A: Forecast models show a gradual decay after 12 UTC Dec 29 as the low moves offshore into the Atlantic,with snow tapering off by Dec 30.
Q: Are there any tornado threats associated with this system?
A: No. The cold air mass and strong upper‑level trough suppress convective activity; the primary hazards remain snow, ice, and wind.
Q: How can I receive real‑time updates?
A: Subscribe to NWS alerts via the NOAA Weather Radio app or follow the National Weather Service Twitter handle (@NWS).
prepared by James carter,senior weather content specialist,for Archyde.com – published 2025‑12‑25 15:47:38.