Major Winter Storm to Hit Chicago, Detroit, Columbus, and New York With Heavy Snow and Ice Through Tuesday

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS — A major winter storm moving east from the Plains is forecast to impact millions across Illinois, Ohio, Michigan, and into the Northeast through Tuesday, delivering a broad zone of heavy snow, freezing rain, and travel disruptions from Chicago to New York City.

According to meteorologists, the system will strengthen overnight, producing 2–9 inches of snow across several regions while generating slick and dangerous travel conditions throughout the Great Lakes, Ohio Valley, and Northeast.

Snowfall Forecast Across Key Cities

As the system moves east, precipitation will transition from cold rain to snow and sleet, with accumulations increasing through Tuesday morning.

• Chicago, Illinois: 2–4 inches of snow expected by early Tuesday, with gusty winds and slick roads during morning commutes.
• Detroit, Michigan: 3–5 inches of snow possible, with steady snowfall through the day creating low visibility for drivers.
• Columbus, Ohio: 3–5 inches of snow forecast, with icy patches developing on untreated surfaces.
• Nashville, Tennessee: Glaze of ice likely overnight before colder air changes precipitation to snow.
• New York, Boston, and northern New England: 6–9 inches of snow expected by Tuesday night, marking one of the first major Northeast snow events of the season.

Forecasters also warn that ice accumulation in the Mid-South and central Appalachians could worsen driving conditions, especially along I-40 and I-70.

“This is a wide-reaching winter storm bringing snow and ice from the Midwest to the Northeast,” forecasters said Monday evening. “The greatest snow totals are expected from central Ohio to New England, where travel could become extremely difficult.”

Travel Disruptions Expected Across the Region

Both road and air travel are expected to be heavily affected. Airports in Chicago, Detroit, Columbus, New York, and Boston are already preparing for flight delays and cancellations as snow bands intensify.

Interstates I-55, I-70, I-80, I-90, and I-95 are forecast to experience periods of snow-covered roads, reduced visibility, and icy stretches throughout the day Tuesday.

Officials are urging drivers to avoid unnecessary travel and to keep emergency supplies in vehicles, including blankets, flashlights, and water.

Timeline of the Storm

• Monday Night: Light snow spreads from Missouri and Illinois into Indiana and western Ohio.
• Tuesday Morning: Heavier snow develops across Chicago, Detroit, and Columbus; ice possible farther south.
• Tuesday Afternoon and Evening: Snow reaches New York, Boston, and parts of New England, intensifying overnight.
• Wednesday Morning: Storm exits the coast, leaving behind bitter cold and gusty winds.

Bitter Cold to Follow the System

Once the storm clears, temperatures across the Midwest and Northeast will plunge. Highs will struggle to reach the 20s across Illinois, Indiana, and Michigan, while wind chills may fall into the single digits by Wednesday morning.

Forecasters expect refreezing on wet surfaces overnight, creating additional hazards for early commuters.

What Residents Should Do

Residents in the affected areas are urged to:

• Check for flight cancellations or delays before heading to airports.
• Avoid unnecessary driving during heavy snowfall or icy conditions.
• Prepare for possible power outages in regions expecting ice.

This storm marks one of the most widespread winter events so far this season, stretching from the Midwest through the Northeast and bringing a combination of snow, ice, and arctic air.

Stay updated with live weather alerts and local forecasts on NapervilleLocal.com.