US, Canada: Adverse winter weather forecast across parts of the north-central and northeastern US and southern Canada through at least March 1

Event

Adverse weather is forecast across parts of the north-central and northeastern US and southern Canada through at least March 1. A winter storm system is expected to bring heavy snow, icing, and strong winds to parts of the Upper Midwest across the Great Lakes into the northeastern US Feb. 27-28, before another storm system from the west arrives in the Upper Midwest late Feb. 28-early March 1. Snowfall accumulations of 10-15 cm (4-6 inches) are possible across parts of the affected area and the combination of heavy snowfall and strong winds could lead to blizzard conditions in places. Hazardous driving conditions are likely across the affected areas due to icy roads and reduced visibility caused by blowing snow. As of early Feb. 27, more than 133,000 customers across Michigan remain without power following a previous winter storm that struck the region last week, and further adverse winter weather could lead to additional power outages across the affected area.

Government Advisories
As of early Feb. 27, the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued winter storm warnings for parts of eastern and northeastern Minnesota, northern and north-central Wisconsin, eastern Pennsylvania, eastern New York, northern New Jersey, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and southern New Hampshire. Winter weather advisories have been issued across much of the rest of the affected area.

The Meteorological Service of Canada has issued special weather statements regarding a mix of wintry precipitation and strong winds across parts of southern Ontario Feb. 27-28.

Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.

Hazardous Conditions
Snow accumulations are likely across the affected area, especially at higher elevations. Lesser accumulations are possible where sleet and freezing rain mix with the snow, and precipitation are less intense. In addition to the heavy snow, strong wind gusts will likely lead to periods of blowing and drifting snow in some areas. Blizzard conditions are possible. Sporadic power outages could occur throughout the affected area.

Transport
The winter weather will likely cause ground and air transport disruptions over the coming days. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are possible along regional highways. Dangerous and challenging driving conditions are also likely on secondary and rural roads in the affected states as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. Authorities could close stretches of highways if driving conditions become too hazardous. Flight delays and cancellations are possible due to ground stops and deicing operations at regional airports.

Advice

Monitor local media for updated weather information. Verify road conditions before driving in areas where heavy snowfall is forecast. Allow extra time to reach destinations in these areas and carry an emergency kit and warm clothes if driving is necessary, especially on secondary or rural routes that could become impassable. If routing shipments by truck through the affected area, plan accordingly for delivery delays. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

National Weather Service
Weather Prediction Center
Meteorological Service of Canada