OHIO — State and local forecasters say another round of snow is expected Friday in Ohio, following a week of bitter cold and periodic snow accumulation that has already disrupted travel, school schedules and daily routines across the region.
According to the National Weather Service and local weather forecasts, a Winter Weather Advisory is in effect for portions of eastern and southeastern Ohio Friday into Saturday, with snowfall expected to begin Friday morning and continue through the afternoon in many areas. Snow is likely to develop along a cold front moving through the Midwest and could lead to 1 to 4 inches of new accumulation statewide, with locally higher amounts in some counties.
Forecasters say the snow will accompany strong Arctic air, keeping temperatures well below normal and making travel hazardous. Roads may become slick as snow falls on pavement that has been repeatedly frozen and thawed over the past several weeks.
Timing and Snow Totals:
- Friday morning to afternoon: Snow is expected to overspread much of Ohio, with the heaviest snow occurring from mid-morning into the afternoon.
- Expected accumulations: General snowfall of 1 to 4 inches is forecast for many areas. Eastern and southeastern Ohio could see totals toward the higher end of that range.
- Overnight into Saturday: Additional light snow is possible Friday night, but accumulations are expected to be minimal compared with the daytime event.
Impacts:
- Travel concerns: Snow falling on roads with existing icy spots and lingering cold could quickly create slippery conditions on interstates and secondary roads Friday, especially during the morning and afternoon rush hours.
- Blustery conditions: Gusty winds accompanying the cold front will make for reduced visibility in some areas, particularly in open and rural portions of the state.
- Cold temperatures: Even after the snow ends, temperatures are expected to remain in the low 20s to teens with dangerous wind chills through the weekend.
This snowfall comes on the heels of a prolonged period of winter weather that has already dropped significant snow across Ohio and the Midwest over the past several weeks. Local forecasters urge residents to check updated forecasts Friday morning before traveling.
