Billings, Montana — A sprawling winter storm system is sweeping across the northern and central United States this weekend, bringing widespread snow, blowing snow, and hazardous travel conditions from the northern Rockies to the Mid-Atlantic. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), the long-duration snow band spans more than a dozen states, with impacts expected to continue through Sunday and, in some areas, into early next week.
Forecasters say the system’s size and longevity — rather than extreme snowfall everywhere — is the primary concern, as it coincides with weekend travel, work shifts, and seasonal events.
Snow ongoing across the northern High Plains
Snow continues Saturday across portions of Montana, North Dakota, and South Dakota, where Winter Weather Advisories remain in effect into the morning hours.
Accumulations across the northern High Plains are generally expected to range between 1 and 5 inches, though blowing snow may significantly reduce visibility at times, especially in open and rural areas.
In western Montana, forecasters warn of additional icing potential, particularly in higher elevations near Marias Pass, where slick conditions could complicate mountain travel.
Central Plains and Midwest face steady snowfall
As the system pushes east, Iowa, Nebraska, Missouri, and Illinois are under widespread Winter Weather Advisories for Saturday.
Forecast models indicate 2 to 5 inches of snow across much of the region, with some localized higher totals possible. In Illinois, meteorologists note pockets of heavier snowfall could develop near U.S. Route 24 and Illinois Route 17.
Cold air trailing the system will push wind chills below zero Saturday night in parts of Missouri and Iowa, increasing the risk of frostbite for anyone exposed for prolonged periods.
Snow intensifies in the Ohio Valley
Snowfall is expected to intensify Saturday afternoon and evening across Indiana, Ohio, and Kentucky, continuing into early Sunday.
Forecast totals vary widely depending on location, ranging from 1 to 6 inches. Even modest accumulations could cause significant travel issues due to falling temperatures and untreated roads.
Officials caution that snowfall during evening and overnight hours may stick quickly, particularly on secondary roads, bridges, and elevated surfaces.
Heavy snow threat in Appalachians and western Pennsylvania
The most significant snowfall totals with this system are expected across parts of West Virginia and western Pennsylvania.
According to the NWS, 3 to 10 inches of snow is possible in these areas, with the highest amounts likely in ridge communities, including Fayette, Randolph, and Pocahontas counties.
Several NWS offices warn that lake-effect snow could prolong hazardous conditions into Monday morning, especially across northern Ohio and western Pennsylvania, even after the main system exits.
Advisories extend into the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast
Farther east, portions of New Jersey, Delaware, and southeastern New York are also under Winter Weather Advisories from late Saturday through Sunday.
These areas are expected to see 2 to 4 inches of snow, enough to create slippery travel conditions, particularly during overnight and early morning hours.
Urban areas may experience slower accumulation initially, but untreated surfaces could quickly become hazardous as temperatures fall.
Widespread impacts expected
While snowfall totals vary by region, forecasters emphasize that the broad geographic reach of this storm increases the likelihood of disruptions.
Weekend work shifts, student travel, and holiday events may be affected from the Rockies to the Northeast, especially in areas where snow coincides with strong winds or rapidly dropping temperatures.
Transportation officials across multiple states are preparing for slick highways, reduced visibility, and potential delays on major travel corridors.
Read Also: Maryland Braces for Weekend Snowfall and Arctic Blast — Here’s the Timeline
Officials urge residents to stay alert
Residents across all affected regions are urged to monitor local National Weather Service forecasts, as well as state and local transportation alerts, as conditions can change quickly.
Drivers are advised to slow down, allow extra travel time, and keep emergency supplies in their vehicles. Those traveling overnight should remain especially cautious, as refreezing may occur after snow tapers off.
Forecasters say additional updates will be issued as the system continues eastward and lake-effect snow potential becomes clearer.
How much snow are you seeing where you live, and how are conditions on the roads? Share your local update in the comments below.
