Another shot of harsh winter weather is moving into the Miami Valley today. An Arctic front is pushing across the region, bringing accumulating snow, strong winds, and a sharp drop in temperatures. If you need to travel, shop, or work outside, you will want to plan carefully.
Forecasters expect steady snow, dangerous wind chills, and difficult driving conditions at times. The worst of the weather will arrive from late morning into tonight before the bitter cold settles in.
Timing The Snow: When It Will Start And End
The Arctic front will sweep through the Ohio Valley during the day. Snow is expected to develop by late morning or early afternoon, depending on where you live in the Miami Valley.
Once the snow begins, it may become heavy at times this afternoon and evening. During these heavier bursts, visibility can drop quickly, and roads can turn slick in a short time.
By late tonight, the steady snow will wind down and move out. However, the impacts will last longer as temperatures collapse and winds stay gusty, keeping wind chills dangerously low.
How Much Snow To Expect
This is not just a light dusting. Forecast totals for this storm are in the 4 to 6 inch range across much of the area. Far northern spots may see slightly lower amounts, but even there, roads can still be snow-covered and slick.
The combination of steady accumulation and periods of heavier snow will lead to:
- Snow-covered and slushy roads, especially untreated surfaces
- Reduced visibility at times, especially in heavier bursts
- Areas of blowing and drifting snow as winds pick up
Gusty Winds And Blowing Snow
On top of the accumulating snow, winds will be an issue today and tonight. Gusts may reach up to 20 mph, which will cause blowing and drifting snow, especially in open and rural areas.
These gusts will:
- Make it harder to see, even after the heaviest snow bands move out
- Blow snow back onto plowed roads, keeping them slick and slushy
- Increase the risk of icy patches because of uneven drifting
If you drive, slow down, increase following distance, and watch for sudden changes in visibility. Bridges and overpasses will freeze first and can be especially hazardous.
How Cold Will It Get?
Temperatures will tumble quickly as the Arctic air spreads in. Today’s high is near 30°F, but that will not last long. Readings will slide into the 20s during the afternoon and continue to fall tonight.
By Sunday morning, low temperatures will drop to around 3°F, and the cold will be even more intense when you factor in the wind.
Wind chills from late tonight into Sunday may feel as low as -15°F. At those levels, frostbite can develop on exposed skin in a short time. Limit your time outside, cover exposed skin, and make sure kids are bundled up if they must go out.
Sunday: Frigid Air Locks In
After the snow ends, the cold becomes the main story. Sunday will be a truly frigid day across the Miami Valley.
- Sunday high near 13°F
- Wind chills between 0 and -15°F
- Snow still on the ground, with icy spots on many roads and sidewalks
It will not take long for unprotected pipes, pets, or people to feel the effects of this cold. Check on elderly neighbors, bring pets indoors, and let faucets drip if needed to help prevent frozen pipes.
How Long Will The Deep Freeze Last?
The harsh cold will stick around into Monday morning. Temperatures could dip to around 0°F, with wind chills staying below zero early in the day.
The good news is that this deep freeze will not last all week. After Monday, temperatures start to rebound and each day gets a little milder.
Big Rebound Later Next Week
By the middle and end of next week, the pattern flips. High temperatures are expected to climb into the 40s and then into the low 50s by Thursday.
Along with the milder air, though, comes another round of active weather. Winds may gust up to 40 to 45 mph, and rain is likely at times. So, while the bitter cold will ease, you will still want to keep an eye on the forecast for wind and wet conditions.
How To Prepare For Today’s Winter Storm
Before The Snow Picks Up
- Finish errands and travel as early as possible, before the heaviest snow this afternoon.
- Stock up on basics like food, water, and any needed medications.
- Charge phones and devices in case of scattered power issues from wind and cold.
On The Roads
- Slow down and leave extra space between vehicles.
- Have an emergency kit in the car, with blankets, a flashlight, and extra gloves.
- Avoid sudden braking or sharp turns on snowy or icy roads.
At Home
- Bring pets inside and provide warm shelter.
- Check that your heating system is working properly.
- Protect pipes in unheated areas and consider letting faucets drip slowly overnight.
The Miami Valley is in for a true winter day, with snow, gusty winds, and plunging temperatures. Expect 4 to 6 inches of snow in most areas, slick and snow-covered roads, and wind chills that could fall to -15°F by Sunday.
Take the storm seriously, plan ahead, and limit time outdoors during the coldest periods. After a bitter stretch through Monday morning, a major warmup arrives later next week, bringing milder air, strong winds, and rain.
Stay weather-aware, check updated local forecasts, and adjust your plans to stay safe and warm through this round of winter weather.
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