If you’re in Ohio or Pennsylvania, don’t be fooled by the quiet before the storm. A major winter system is moving in, bringing heavy snow, strong winds, and dangerous travel conditions through early Monday morning.
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning in effect until 7 AM Monday, with snow piling up fast and gusty winds making roads even more treacherous.
How Much Snow Are We Getting?
Snowfall totals will vary depending on location, but some areas—especially Erie and Crawford counties in Pennsylvania—could see an additional 3 to 5 inches, with some spots reaching up to 8 inches before the storm winds down.
On top of that, wind gusts up to 40 mph will make things worse by blowing snow around, creating whiteout conditions and near-zero visibility at times.
If you have plans to travel overnight or early Monday morning, think twice—driving could become extremely hazardous.
Travel Warning: Dangerous Roads Ahead
If you’re planning to hit the road, expect slick and snow-covered highways, low visibility, and ice patches, especially on bridges and overpasses.
Key travel impacts:
- Visibility could drop to less than 1/4 mile in heavy snow
- Blowing and drifting snow could make plowing difficult
- The Monday morning commute could be a nightmare
Authorities strongly advise against unnecessary travel during the storm. But if you must drive, make sure to:
- Check road conditions before heading out
- Pack an emergency kit (blankets, snacks, flashlight, phone charger)
- Drive slow and leave extra space between vehicles
How to Stay Safe at Home
- Be ready for power disruptions: Strong winds and a lot of snow may cause power lines to fall and cause outages. Keep additional blankets, flashlights, and batteries on hand.
- Stock up on supplies – Before the worst of the storm strikes, make sure you have food, medicine, and other necessities.
- Stay informed: For the most recent information, pay attention to local news and weather alerts.
- Watch for icy sidewalks – Even after the snow stops, refreezing could make sidewalks and driveways dangerously slippery.
What Happens After the Storm?
Snowfall will start to slow down early Monday, but bitter cold and gusty winds will stick around. Wind chills will make it feel even colder, and roads could remain hazardous as plows struggle to keep up.
Even after the storm moves out, lingering ice and packed snow could create dangerous conditions for days—so be extra careful when driving or walking outside.