Bands of heavy lake-effect snow are expected to form following a storm spanning 2024 and 2025 across the Upper Midwest and interior Northeast. AccuWeather meteorologists predict that a small but impactful storm will bring accumulating snow from the Midwest to the central Appalachians by the end of the week. As a previous storm exits the Ohio Valley to southern New England with mostly rain, colder air will move into the Midwest and Northeast.
Lake-effect snow, a typical occurrence in this region, will occur as cold air travels over the warm Great Lakes waters, leading to bands of snow that shift with the wind direction. These snow bands, setting up in a northwest-to-southeast or west-to-east pattern, can result in heavy snow accumulation and potential road closures. The intensity of the snow may vary, ranging from light to intense as colder air strengthens.
The heaviest snow totals are projected to be east and southeast of Lake Erie and Lake Ontario, with some areas expecting up to 24 inches of snow. Northern Ohio, northwestern Pennsylvania, western New York, and northern New York are anticipated to receive significant snowfall amounts, with potential snowfall of up to 48 inches in certain locations. Some lake-effect snow may reach as far south as the central Appalachians.
In addition to the lake-effect snow event, a clipper-like storm is forecasted to move through the northern Rockies, Midwest, and southern Appalachians, bringing light to moderate snow accumulations. This storm may cause slippery conditions in various cities across the Midwest and Appalachians.
As the winter progresses, colder air and potential winter storms are expected to impact the Midwest and East through mid-January. Stay informed with the AccuWeather app for alerts on changing weather conditions.
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