If you thought winter was winding down, think again! A major snowstorm is heading straight for the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast, and it’s bringing heavy snow, strong winds, and freezing temperatures with it. Some areas could see up to a foot of snow between Wednesday and Thursday, making for a messy couple of days.
If you’re planning to travel, you might want to rethink your plans—this storm could cause dangerous road conditions, flight delays, and power outages. Here’s what you need to know so you can stay ahead of the storm.
Who’s Getting Hit the Hardest?
Although the amount of snowfall will vary, residents in eastern Kansas, Missouri, and portions of Virginia may receive up to 12 inches. Snowfall will be less in Boston, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C., but even a few inches could cause sloppy roads.
Here’s the latest snowfall forecast for major cities:
- Eastern Kansas, Missouri, and parts of Virginia: Up to 12 inches of snow, with snowfall rates as high as 1 to 2 inches per hour at times.
- New York City: Just a dusting—NYC will dodge the worst of the storm.
- By Thursday night, Boston, Massachusetts, expect two to four inches of snow. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: Expect around an inch of snow, with a little more in the surrounding areas.
- Washington, D.C.: One to two inches of accumulation of light snow is anticipated from Wednesday evening into Thursday.
The storm ramps up late Wednesday and continues into Thursday morning, meaning Thursday’s commute could be rough.
Travel Alert: Roads Could Be a Mess
Thinking about driving Wednesday night or Thursday morning? Think twice. This storm is bringing heavy snow and gusty winds that could make visibility nearly zero in some places. Roads will become slick and dangerous fast, and flights could see delays or cancellations.
If you have to travel, follow these steps:
- Before leaving, make sure to check the road conditions.
- Store a flashlight, drink, snacks, and blanket in your vehicle.
- Take your time driving and be patient.
- Inform someone of your plans in case you find yourself stuck
Your best option is to stay at home if you can.
How to Prepare Before the Snow Arrives
- Stock up on food, water, and essentials in case it’s hard to get to stores for a couple of days.
- Make sure your heating system is working, and grab extra blankets just in case
- Charge your phone, flashlights, and portable batteries—power outages are possible.
- Check on neighbors, especially the elderly or those who may need help preparing.
What Happens After the Storm?
Even when the snow stops Thursday, don’t expect everything to go back to normal right away. Temperatures will stay below freezing, which means ice will be a big problem—especially on untreated roads and sidewalks.
If you have to go outside, watch out for black ice! It’s sneaky and can cause dangerous falls.