Heavy Snowfall Forecast for Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan, Ohio, New York, and the Northeast as Multi-Day Storm Pattern Brings 3–18 Inches Through the Weekend

ILLINOIS — A major multi-day winter pattern is setting up across the Midwest and Northeast, with several storm systems expected to deliver widespread snowfall from Wednesday through Sunday. Forecast maps indicate that parts of the Great Lakes and interior Northeast could see significant accumulations ranging from 3 inches to more than 18 inches, leading to hazardous travel and potential disruptions heading into the weekend.

Multiple Systems Bringing Snow to the Region This Week

Meteorologists report that a sequence of winter disturbances will move across the northern half of the country, each bringing a new round of snowfall:

• Wednesday: Snow spreads across the Midwest and Northeast
• Thursday–Saturday: A stronger system brings snow to the Plains and Midwest
• Saturday–Sunday: A third system targets the Plains, Midwest, and Northeast

This repeated pattern of cold air and storm development will create prolonged wintry conditions, especially around the Great Lakes.

Snow Totals Reveal Significant Accumulations in Several Cities

Based on the latest model projections:

• Green Bay: 5–8 inches
• Alpena: 3–5 inches
• Buffalo: 8–12 inches
• Areas of Vermont and Upstate New York: 12–18 inches
• Cleveland, Detroit, Chicago: 1–3 inches, with locally higher bands around the lakes
• Indianapolis, Peoria, Des Moines: Light snow, generally less than an inch to 3 inches

Heavier lake-effect bands are expected to develop in typical snow belts, producing higher localized totals around Buffalo, the Tug Hill Plateau, and parts of Michigan.

Weekend Forecast Shows Continued Snow for Millions

Forecast maps for the Saturday–Sunday period show:

• Light snow for areas of the Midwest including Des Moines, Indianapolis, and Chicago
• Moderate snow around Detroit, Cleveland, and Pittsburgh
• Heavy snow across parts of Upstate New York and northern New England

By the end of the weekend, millions across the northern U.S. will have seen multiple rounds of accumulating snow, adding up to significant totals in several states.

Hazardous Travel Conditions Expected Across Several Regions

With snow occurring over multiple consecutive days, meteorologists warn of:

• Slippery highways and reduced visibility
• Possible airport delays in cities like Chicago, Detroit, Boston, and Philadelphia
• Patchy blowing snow in open areas
• Difficult travel through mountain passes and lake-effect corridors

Drivers across the Midwest and Northeast should plan for rapidly changing road conditions, especially at night and during peak snowfall periods.

Residents Encouraged to Prepare for Extended Winter Weather

Authorities urge residents to:

• Monitor local forecasts
• Allow extra travel time
• Prepare winter gear and emergency kits
• Check heating systems before colder air settles in

With multiple waves of snow expected to pass through the region, communities across the Midwest and Northeast should expect a prolonged stretch of winter conditions leading into next week.

Stay updated with the latest weather developments and share storm impacts with the newsroom at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.