A powerful late-season winter storm is moving across parts of the northern United States today, April 20, bringing widespread Winter Storm Warnings and creating dangerous conditions across several regions. The fast-moving system is affecting Northern Michigan, Upstate New York, and the higher elevations of Vermont and New Hampshire.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), the storm is expected to make travel difficult through Monday evening, with heavy snow, strong winds, and poor visibility increasing the risk for residents and commuters.
What to Expect from the Storm
Forecasters say the storm could bring 6 to 10 inches of snow across the warning areas. The heaviest snowfall is expected along and north of the I-90 corridor in Michigan and across much of Upstate New York, extending toward the borders of Vermont and New Hampshire. These areas are likely to experience the strongest impacts from the storm.
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In addition to snowfall, wind gusts of up to 40 mph are expected, which may lead to blowing and drifting snow. This will make visibility much worse, especially during the predawn and early morning hours, when winds are forecast to be strongest. Under these conditions, even short trips could become dangerous.
Meanwhile, areas along the I-95 corridor from Philadelphia to Boston are seeing a different weather setup. Warmer air moving in from the south is causing most precipitation there to fall as rain rather than snow. However, higher elevation and inland areas remain cold enough for wintry conditions and are expected to face the full force of the storm.
Travel Impacts and Road Conditions
Travel across the affected regions is expected to become increasingly hazardous throughout the day. Major highways such as I-87 through the Adirondacks and I-90 across western and central New York are likely to see worsening road conditions as snow intensifies and winds pick up.
Elevated routes through the Green Mountains and White Mountains are especially vulnerable due to colder temperatures and greater exposure to wind. Snow buildup and drifting may create slick roads and reduce visibility, making driving especially dangerous.
Bridges, overpasses, and untreated secondary roads are expected to become icy quickly. In rural areas, drifting snow may narrow roads or even make some routes impassable for a time.
Icing Risk in Northwestern Maine
While most of the impacted region is dealing with heavy snow, northwestern Maine is facing another major threat: ice accumulation. The Weather Prediction Center has highlighted the possibility of at least 0.10 inches of ice buildup in some parts of the area.
Even a small amount of ice can create dangerously slippery conditions, especially on untreated surfaces such as bridges, ramps, and shaded roads. Ice is often more hazardous than snow because it is harder to spot and significantly reduces traction.
Essential Winter Driving Tips
Driving during a winter storm requires proper preparation and extra caution. One of the most important safety factors is tire condition. While all-wheel drive can help vehicles gain traction when starting or climbing, it does not improve stopping distance on icy or snow-covered roads.
- Maintain a minimum tire tread depth of 4/32 inches for winter driving.
- Check tire pressure regularly, as cold temperatures can reduce pressure by 1 to 2 PSI for every 10-degree drop.
- Increase following distance to at least three times the normal amount used on dry roads.
- Carry an emergency kit with blankets, flashlight, batteries, food, water, first-aid supplies, and a shovel.
Timing and Storm Progression
The winter storm is expected to move through the region throughout Monday, April 20. Conditions should begin to improve later in the evening as the system exits the area. However, that does not mean the danger will end immediately.
As temperatures drop overnight, any melted snow or treated road surfaces may refreeze, creating black ice. This hidden hazard could make Tuesday morning travel particularly dangerous, even where roads appear clear.
