If you live in Ohio, Kentucky, Iowa, or Illinois, now is the time to get prepared. A powerful storm system is sweeping across the region, bringing heavy snow to the west and dangerous flooding to the east.
By Wednesday night, parts of Iowa and Illinois could see up to 6 inches of snow, while Ohio and Kentucky deal with heavy rain, rising rivers, and possible flash floods. The National Weather Service is warning that travel could be severely impacted, and residents should be ready for changing conditions.
Iowa & Illinois: A Winter Wonderland Or a Travel Nightmare?
Snow lovers might be excited, but for travelers and commuters, this storm could be a major headache. Snowfall is expected to start Tuesday night and last through Wednesday, making morning and evening commutes dangerous.
- Des Moines, IA – Expect steady snow all day Wednesday, with roads becoming snow-packed and icy. Travel could be slow and treacherous.
- Chicago, IL – A mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain will make for slick streets and possible power outages. Flights at O’Hare and Midway could see delays.
If you’re driving, give yourself extra time, slow down, and stay updated on road conditions. If you can, consider working from home on Wednesday.
Ohio & Kentucky: Flood Risks on the Rise
While snow blankets the Midwest, Ohio and Kentucky are in for a different kind of trouble too much rain. Several inches of rain could lead to flash flooding, and with already saturated ground, rivers and streams could overflow.
- Columbus, OH – Nonstop rain through Wednesday means flooding in low-lying areas is likely. Watch for rising water levels.
- Louisville, KY – Some roads are already underwater, and with more rain coming, the situation could get worse fast.
If you live near a creek, river, or flood-prone area, now is the time to prepare. Have a go-bag ready in case evacuations are needed, and never drive through floodwaters—it only takes six inches of moving water to sweep a car away.
How to Stay Safe
For Snowy Areas (Iowa & Illinois):
- Stay off the roads if possible – they’ll be snow-covered and icy.
- Have emergency supplies in your car blankets, water, snacks, and a phone charger.
- Prepare for power outages – heavy snow and ice could bring down power lines.
For Flood-Prone Areas (Ohio & Kentucky):
- Don’t drive through standing water – it’s impossible to know how deep it really is.
- Move valuable items to higher ground if you’re in a flood-prone home.
- Check on elderly neighbors or those with limited mobility they might need help if conditions worsen.
Final Thoughts
This isn’t just another winter storm it’s a major weather event that could cause serious disruptions across the Midwest. Whether you’re dealing with snow, ice, or flooding, now is the time to get prepared.
If you’re in Iowa or Illinois, get ready for slippery roads and possible power outages. If you’re in Ohio or Kentucky, keep an eye on water levels and be ready to move to higher ground if needed.
Stay safe, stay informed, and check back for updates as this storm develops!