Two back-to-back winter storms are bearing down on the Midwest, Great Lakes, and Northeast of the United States starting February 5, 2025, bringing freezing rain and snowfall.
The first storm, named “Freya” by The Weather Channel, will begin on February 5-6 and will bring significant ice accumulation, especially in Western Maryland, West Virginia and central/southern Pennsylvania, where ice accumulation is likely to exceed 6.35 mm (0.25 inches). This will create extremely hazardous conditions, including the potential for downed power lines and falling trees.
Freezing rain and snow will hamper travel on key highways, including interstates I-81, I-89, I-76, I-70, I-99, I-68 and I-95 from New York to Boston. Drivers are advised to exercise extreme caution and avoid travel if possible.
An ice storm warning has been issued for large parts of Appalachia, Pennsylvania, Maryland, West Virginia, and northern Virginia. There is a high probability of power outages, tree damage, and travel difficulties in these areas.
Winter weather warnings are also in effect for much of the Midwest, Appalachia, and Northeast, including Baltimore, Chicago, Des Moines, and Pittsburgh. Severe weather conditions are expected in these areas.
In northern Missouri and Iowa, freezing rain and sleet will begin, which will later spread to the southern Great Lakes region, affecting cities such as Chicago, Cleveland and Detroit. Heavy snowfall is expected in central and northern Minnesota and northern Michigan.
In the Mid-Atlantic areas, including Baltimore, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C., sleet and freezing rain is expected from Wednesday evening to Thursday morning before turning to rain.
While no heavy snowfall is expected, several inches of snow is forecast from North Dakota and central and northern Minnesota to upstate New York and northern New England.
The second winter storm will hit the Midwest and Northeast on Saturday through Sunday, February 8-9. The low pressure system is expected to bring moisture into a cold high pressure area, resulting in wintry weather conditions.
Although the exact forecast is still difficult, it is likely that by Saturday a band of freezing rain will form from the Northern Plains and Great Lakes to parts of the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast.
Along the interstate I-95, including the New York and Boston areas, there may be short-term snow showers before turning to sleet or rain. By Sunday, the bulk of the snowfall will move over New England as the storm moves further away.
Forecasters are warning drivers and residents of these regions to be prepared for severe weather and recommend following weather forecast updates.
