Snow timing: Winter warning in effect as area to endure nearly 48-hour system

Several inches of snow covered the groundDec. 2 in Madison Twp. in Butler County. NICK GRAHAM/STAFF

Credit: Nick Graham

Credit: Nick Graham

Several inches of snow covered the groundDec. 2 in Madison Twp. in Butler County. NICK GRAHAM/STAFF

Anywhere from 9-12 inches of snow will fall in the Southwest Ohio region beginning Saturday evening and into late Sunday night — and that’s on top of extremely low temperatures.

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine declared a state of emergency on Saturday and said the roadways will be dangerous.

A winter storm warning is in effect until noon Monday. There will be an initial round of light snow Saturday evening, with the heavier snowfall coming starting around daybreak on Sunday and continuing until the afternoon, then gradually tapering off in the evening and overnight.

During the day on Sunday, the NWS said it expects more than half an inch of snowfall per hour until around 5 p.m., though some areas closer to the Ohio River could also see some mixed precipitation and ice formation.

Meanwhile, highs will remain well below freezing, with highs Saturday around 15 degrees and lows around 12 degrees. Sunday’s highs are expected to be around 22 degrees, falling to around 7 degrees overnight.

The heavy snow and freezing temperatures will make it harder for crews to clear roads, resulting in hazardous driving conditions.

The NWS said as snow overspreads the area mid-afternoon through early evening, it is recommended to take it slow on the roads. Very difficult travel conditions are expected by late tonight through Sunday as the winter storm rolls in.

Residents should avoid driving if possible, but those who must travel should prepare a winter storm kit before hitting the road and remain weather aware. Kits should include an extra flashlight, food and water, blankets and cold weather gear.

Frigid temperatures are expected through next week, with highs in the teens and lows dropping to around or just below zero degrees.

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