WILMINGTON, Ohio — A potent winter storm is barreling toward southern Ohio, threatening the Scioto Valley with heavy snow and treacherous travel conditions this weekend, followed by a punishing Arctic blast that could send wind chills plunging well below zero.
The National Weather Service in Wilmington has issued a Winter Storm Watch for the region, effective from Saturday morning through early Monday morning.
Heavy snow is possible, with total accumulations of 6 to 10 inches expected across the Scioto Valley, including areas around Portsmouth and Chillicothe.
The storm is expected to develop Saturday afternoon and continue through late Sunday night, creating hazardous travel conditions as snow accumulates rapidly.
Compounding the impacts, an Arctic air mass will settle into the region starting Friday and persist through early next week. Wind chills are forecast to drop near or below zero for extended periods, with values as low as -10°F to -15°F in parts of southern Ohio.
The NWS warns that any snow accumulation will not melt quickly amid the prolonged cold, potentially leading to lingering slick roads and dangerous conditions through mid-next week.
Residents are urged to prepare for the storm by stocking supplies, limiting travel if possible, and exercising caution outdoors, especially during snow removal activities.