Month: January 2011

It is now looking like a major winter storm will impact Cincinnati this week, but by far the worst of it will be to our north and west. 

A devastating ice storm is possible as close as south central Indiana and central Ohio with over a foot of snow north of that.  Travel north and west will become impossible Tuesday and Wednesday, and a variety of winter weather will also impact Cincinnati, along with a period of cold, heavy rain.  When all is said and done, Cincinnati will see over 1.50 inches of liquid and melted precipitation, some ice and some snow.  Pay attention as details are nailed down.  Just a small shift southward would mean larger impacts in Cincinnati.  Widespread power outages are likely over a widespread area, mainly to our north and west.

More details:

Significant winter weather Monday Night through Wednesday

A major, disruptive storm system is taking aim at the country this week.  Huge snows, flooding rains, and crippling ice  appear to be likely.  The track of the storm will be critical as to determining how Cincinnati may be affected.  Heavy rain, snow, sleet, and damaging ice are all possibilities at this time.  There is the chance that well in excess of 1/2 inch of ice could accumulate on trees.  If this were to occur, serious to devastating tree damage and power outages would result.  It is too early to be too specific, but this is a storm to watch.

A winter storm warning is in effect for the Cincinnati tristate for Thursday into Thursday night. 

The heaviest snow will be in the afternoon and evening of Thursday.  Therefore, morning rush hour won’t be too bad on Thursday but woe to you who are out in the afternoon and evening.  Snow could be falling at an inch per hour during the afternoon rush.  Snow will mostly end by Friday morning with general 4 to 6 inch amounts and isolated 7 or 8 inch amounts possible.  This will allow some time for plowing.  However, strong winds will develop and there will be lots of snow for the wind to blow around. 

The wind will also be ushering in a quick shot of arctic air.  Temperatures will warm back toward freezing by Monday as a weaker system brings in the chance for light snow early next week.