Ice to create impossible travel, widespread power outages in Ohio

OHIO — Southern Ohio residents should prepare for a significant winter storm expected to bring heavy snow, freezing rain, and sleet, making travel nearly impossible and likely causing widespread power outages.

Saturday Afternoon and Evening

The calm before the storm will bring sunny skies this afternoon with a high near 30°F and a west wind around 9 mph. Tonight, conditions will remain quiet with partly cloudy skies and a low of 19°F.

Sunday: Snowstorm Begins

Snow will move into the area Sunday afternoon, becoming heavy at times. The high will reach near 29°F with light and variable winds. Snowfall accumulation of 2 to 4 inches is predicted by Sunday evening.

Sunday Night: Dangerous Conditions Develop

The storm will intensify Sunday night, bringing a mix of snow, freezing rain, and sleet. Snowfall could be heavy, and ice accumulation is expected to reach 0.1 inches.

Combined with additional snow and sleet accumulation of 3 to 7 inches, roads will become treacherous, and power lines may be vulnerable to the weight of ice.

Temperatures will drop to a low of 25°F, with northeast winds at 6 to 8 mph.

Monday: Prolonged Storm Impacts

Wintry precipitation is expected to continue Monday morning, with snow, freezing rain, and sleet likely before transitioning to all snow.

An additional 1 to 2 inches of snow and sleet may fall, with a high near 29°F and north winds around 9 mph.

Travel and Safety Warnings

Authorities are urging residents to stay off the roads as travel could become impossible, especially Sunday night into Monday morning.

Ice accumulation and heavy snow are likely to lead to downed power lines and outages.

Residents are advised to stock up on essentials, charge devices, and prepare for possible extended power disruptions.

Stay updated with the latest forecasts and heed local emergency management advisories as this storm unfolds.