CHICAGO, ILLINOIS — A major winter storm moving east from the Plains is forecast to impact millions across Illinois, Ohio, Michigan, and into the Northeast through Tuesday, delivering a broad zone of heavy snow, freezing rain, and travel disruptions from Chicago to New York City.
According to meteorologists, the system will strengthen overnight, producing 2–9 inches of snow across several regions while generating slick and dangerous travel conditions throughout the Great Lakes, Ohio Valley, and Northeast.
Snowfall Forecast Across Key Cities
As the system moves east, precipitation will transition from cold rain to snow and sleet, with accumulations increasing through Tuesday morning.
- Chicago, Illinois: 2–4 inches of snow expected by early Tuesday, with gusty winds and slick roads during morning commutes.
- Detroit, Michigan: 3–5 inches of snow possible, with steady snowfall through the day creating low visibility for drivers.
- Columbus, Ohio: 3–5 inches of snow forecast, with icy patches developing on untreated surfaces.
- Nashville, Tennessee: Glaze of ice likely overnight before colder air changes precipitation to snow.
- New York, Boston, and northern New England: 6–9 inches of snow expected by Tuesday night, marking one of the first major Northeast snow events of the season.
Forecasters also warn that ice accumulation in the Mid-South and central Appalachians could worsen driving conditions, especially along I-40 and I-70.
“This is a wide-reaching winter storm bringing snow and ice from the Midwest to the Northeast,” forecasters said Monday evening. “The greatest snow totals are expected from central Ohio to New England, where travel could become extremely difficult.”
Travel Disruptions Expected Across the Region
Both road and air travel are expected to be heavily affected. Airports in Chicago, Detroit, Columbus, New York, and Boston are already preparing for flight delays and cancellations as snow bands intensify…