The Tri-State area is experiencing a 9 First Warning Weather Alert Day as light snowfall blankets the region, marking the first of two anticipated snow events this week. Snow accumulations are expected to increase with a more impactful weather system moving in on Saturday.
An area of low pressure has shifted slightly southwest overnight, bringing light snow primarily to locations north of the Ohio River. Although treated roads remain mostly safe, with snow-free and wet surfaces, residents are observing snow accumulation on grassy areas and driveways. Further south, minor snow has begun to accumulate on the roads; however, the pre-treatment of routes has kept most major roads in good condition as of early Friday morning. Monitoring of road conditions shows that, even in southern areas, wet pavement prevails.
Light snowfall is expected to continue through 8 a.m. under a winter weather advisory, with predictions of less than an inch expected from Cincinnati to the northeast, while southern regions could see 1-3 inches. Unlike last week’s more significant snowfall event, which dropped between 2-5 inches, travel disruption is not anticipated today.
The forecast for the rest of Friday includes cloudy skies with highs reaching the mid-30s. As night falls, conditions will remain dry, leading to a mostly cloudy start to Saturday but shifting to snow by the afternoon. The upcoming storm will bring more substantial snowfall, mainly sticking as temperatures are expected to drop quickly.
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch for the Tri-State, particularly focusing on areas north of the Ohio River. Locations south of the river are also likely to encounter accumulating snow, with winter weather advisories expected to be issued. Snowfall from the Saturday system is projected to total between 3-5 inches, and with bitterly cold air behind it, road conditions are likely to worsen, leading to snow-covered streets and low temperatures dropping to around 4 degrees by Sunday morning.
As the weekend approaches, conditions remind us of the winter season’s stern grip, but forecasts suggest a return to clearer skies by Sunday afternoon with more seasonal temperatures. Stay safe and warm, and consider signing up for the daily forecast email newsletter to keep updated.