Winter Storm Warning: Up to 24 Inches of Snow & Blizzard Conditions to Hit Multiple States

Snow-covered road during a blizzard with a winter storm warning in effect

Winter Storm Warning Issued for Multiple States with Up to 24 Inches of Snow and Blizzard Conditions Expected

A significant Winter Storm Warning has been issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) for several states across the U.S., with forecasts predicting heavy snowfall of up to 24 inches and dangerous, blizzard-like conditions from Thursday, November 27, through the weekend.

The powerful storm system is set to cause major travel disruptions during the busy post-Thanksgiving period, creating "treacherous" and "potentially life-threatening" conditions. The NWS has urged residents in the affected areas to avoid travel if possible and to prepare for power outages and hazardous roads.

This comprehensive guide breaks down which states are under a Winter Storm Warning, the expected snow totals, and essential safety tips to help you prepare.

What is a Winter Storm Warning?

Before diving into the specifics, it's important to understand what a Winter Storm Warning means.

A Winter Storm Warning is issued by the National Weather Service when a significant winter weather event is occurring or is imminent. This can include:

Heavy Snow: Generally 6 inches or more in 12 hours, or 8 inches or more in 24 hours.
Sleet: Half an inch or more of sleet accumulation.
Freezing Rain: Significant ice accumulations.
Strong Winds: Often combined with snow to create blowing snow and low visibility.

A warning indicates that travel will be very difficult or impossible. It is a step up from a "Winter Storm Watch," which means conditions are favorable for a storm, and a "Winter Weather Advisory," which indicates that travel will be difficult but not impossible.

States Under Winter Storm Warning (November 2025)

According to the National Weather Service, a multi-day winter storm will impact a wide swath of the country. The following states have areas currently under a Winter Storm Warning or a Winter Weather Advisory:

Alaska
Illinois
Iowa
Michigan
Missouri
Montana
New York
Ohio
Pennsylvania
South Dakota
Wisconsin

Snowfall Forecasts and Affected Areas

The storm's impact will vary by region, with some areas facing blizzard conditions and others seeing several inches of heavy, wet snow.

Michigan: Up to 24 Inches Possible

Michigan is expected to see some of the highest snow totals from this event, particularly in the Upper Peninsula and northern Lower Peninsula.

Kalkaska & Southern Antrim County: Up to 24 inches of snow is possible by Friday evening.
Delta, Luce, & Schoolcraft Counties: Up to 10 inches with wind gusts as high as 45 mph.
Charlevoix, Crawford, & Otsego Counties: Up to 18 inches in some areas.
Marquette & Alger Counties: 6 to 13 inches with 50 mph winds, creating blizzard-like conditions.

Montana: Mountain Passes to See Heavy Snow

The Rocky Mountain Front in Montana is under a Winter Storm Warning, with significant accumulations in higher elevations.

Hi-Line Region (above 6,000 feet): Up to 12 inches of snow by Friday evening.
Glacier National Park, Marias Pass, & Polebridge: Up to 11 inches with 40 mph winds.
Travel Alert: The NWS advises that tire chains may be necessary for anyone traveling over mountain passes.

Iowa: Widespread Heavy Snowfall

Nearly all of Iowa is expected to receive significant snowfall from Friday into Sunday.

Statewide Forecast: Between 6 and 14 inches of snow is expected across the state.

Midwest (Illinois, Missouri, Wisconsin, South Dakota): Treacherous Travel

The Midwest is bracing for a combination of heavy snow and strong winds, making travel dangerous.

Illinois: 4 to 12 inches expected by Saturday night.
Missouri: 7 to 8 inches possible in central and northeast parts of the state.
South Dakota: Up to 8 inches by Saturday afternoon.
Wisconsin: Up to 6 inches in south-central and southeast regions.

East Coast (New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio): Snow and High Winds

The storm will also bring a mix of snow and high winds to parts of the East Coast.

New York: Up to 7 inches in Central New York (Cortland, Otsego) with 40 mph winds. The NWS warns that "gusty winds will down tree branches and cause isolated power outages."
Ohio: Up to 6 inches in northeastern Ohio with 45 mph winds. Snowfall rates could reach 1 inch per hour.
Pennsylvania: 3 to 7 inches in several counties, including Cameron, Elk, and Potter.

Alaska: Significant Snow on Seward Highway

Even Alaska is feeling the effects of this widespread winter weather pattern.

Seward Highway & Turnagain Pass: 6 to 16 inches of new snow expected by Friday morning.

Travel Warnings and Safety Advisories

The timing of this storm, coinciding with the end of the Thanksgiving holiday, is expected to cause major travel disruptions.

National Weather Service Travel Advisory: The NWS has issued strong warnings for anyone planning to travel in the affected regions:

"Plan on slushy and slippery road conditions and reduced visibility. The hazardous conditions will impact Thanksgiving holiday travel. If traveling, be prepared for rapidly changing road conditions and visibility."

Ohio Department of Transportation:

"The Ohio Department of Transportation... strongly encourage[s] motorists to heed all travel restrictions and delay unnecessary travel."

Key Dangers:

Low Visibility: Blowing snow could reduce visibility to less than a quarter of a mile in some areas, creating blizzard conditions.
Icy Roads: Rapidly dropping temperatures can cause wet or slushy roads to freeze quickly.
Power Outages: High winds combined with heavy, wet snow can bring down tree branches and power lines.

How to Prepare for a Winter Storm Warning

If you are in an area under a Winter Storm Warning, it is crucial to take preparations seriously.

At Home:

Emergency Kit: Make sure your home emergency kit is stocked with flashlights, batteries, a first-aid kit, a battery-powered radio, and a 3-day supply of non-perishable food and water.
Stay Charged: Charge all electronic devices, including cell phones and power banks, in case of a power outage.
Prevent Frozen Pipes: Let faucets drip slightly and open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.
Check Heating Sources: Ensure your furnace, fireplace, or space heaters are in good working order. Never use a generator indoors.

If You Must Travel:

Vehicle Emergency Kit: Pack a kit for your car that includes blankets, extra warm clothing, a flashlight, a shovel, an ice scraper, jumper cables, and sand or cat litter for traction.
Full Tank of Gas: Keep your gas tank at least half full to prevent the fuel line from freezing.
Check Road Conditions: Before you leave, check your state's Department of Transportation website for the latest road closures and conditions.
Inform Others: Let someone know your travel route and expected arrival time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Winter Storm Warnings

Q: What is the difference between a Winter Storm Warning and a Blizzard Warning?

A: A Winter Storm Warning is issued for heavy snow, sleet, or freezing rain. A Blizzard Warning is more specific and is issued when falling or blowing snow is combined with sustained winds of 35 mph or more, reducing visibility to less than a quarter of a mile for at least three hours. Some areas in this storm system may experience blizzard conditions.

Q: How long will this winter storm last?

A: The storm is expected to last from Thursday, November 27, through the weekend, with the heaviest impacts varying by region. Check your local NWS forecast for the specific timing in your area.

Q: Is it safe to travel during a Winter Storm Warning?

A: No. The National Weather Service strongly advises against travel during a Winter Storm Warning. Roads will be slippery, and visibility can be severely limited, leading to "treacherous" and "potentially life-threatening" conditions.

Q: How much snow is expected in Michigan?

A: Parts of northern Michigan, particularly Kalkaska and southern Antrim County, could see up to 24 inches of snow, which is the highest predicted total for this storm system.

Q: Will this storm cause power outages?

A: Yes, power outages are possible, especially in areas with high winds (40-50 mph) and heavy, wet snow. The NWS has specifically warned of this possibility in New York and other eastern states.

Q: How can I stay updated on the storm?

A: The best sources for real-time information are the National Weather Service (weather.gov) and your local news outlets. A NOAA Weather Radio is also a reliable tool for receiving alerts.

Sources:

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