Blizzard Warning: Lorain, Cuyahoga Counties

UPDATE: 1 PM: Avon Lake Mayor Greg Zilka has enacted a parking ban for all city streets. Plows need to be able to move through streets, unobstructed.

‘Tis the season…for snow.

The National Weather Service (NWS) has issues a “Blizzard Warning,” after canceling—and upgrading—a previously issued “winter storm warning.” Holiday travelers may want to adjust their plans accordingly.

The blizzard warning in effect from 7 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 26 to 7 a.m.  EST Thursday, Dec. 27. Lorain and Cuyahoga counties are included in the warning. Heavy snow will combine with blustery northeast windes to create severe winter weather.

“The winter storm warning is cancelled...,” The NWS issued in its statement. “The national weather service in Cleveland has issued a blizzard warning.

 “This in an upgrade to the winter storm warning which was previously in effect.”

The NWS advised of the following:

• Accumulations: 8 to 12 inches of snow. 
• Timing: Snow will spread northeast across the area Wednesday   morning. Heavy snow and wind gusts of 35 mph will create blizzard conditions during the height of the storm Wednesday   afternoon and early evening. The snow will taper off from west   to east Wednesday night. 
• Winds: Northeast 20 to 25 mph with gusts to 35 mph. 
• Impacts: Blizzard conditions will make for dangerous travel   conditions Wednesday afternoon into Wednesday night.  Visibilities will be near zero at times. Some roads may be   impassible from drifting snow. 
• Temperatures: Temperatures will be in the upper 20s. 
• Visibilities: Visibility will be reduced to near zero at times from the   combination of falling and blowing snow Wednesday afternoon and   evening. 

Watch for any announcements from local authorities concerning your road conditions. 

Precautionary/preparedness actions: A blizzard warning means severe winter weather conditions are expected or occurring. Visibilities will be near zero at times making travel extremely dangerous. Do not travel. If you must, have a winter survival kit with you. If you get stranded, stay with your vehicle.