Winter Storm Watch Issued For Northern Ohio

A Winter Storm Watch has been officially issued for Northern Ohio. The National Weather Service warns that 6 to 10 inches of snow could hammer the region between Saturday and Sunday morning.

The heaviest snow is expected to fall between Saturday afternoon and Saturday night, though flurries could continue through Sunday morning. Lake effect snow could also prolong the storm in parts of the state.

"Travel could be very difficult. Expect wet surfaces to freeze Sunday and Sunday night as temperatures plunge into the single digits. Wind chills of zero to 10 below are expected Sunday night and could result in hypothermia if precautions are not taken," the NWS said.

Winds are expected to hit 30 to 40 mph, making for biting wind chills and obscured driving conditions. The Winter Storm Watch starts Saturday at 4 a.m. and expires Jan. 21 at 4 a.m.

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The coming winter storm has been earning the concern of residents since the beginning of the week, and the snow finally appears set to hit the state on Saturday. The storm appears set to dissipate before Monday, with Sunday's snowfall lessened significantly since initial forecasts.

Many towns have already issued snow parking bans for the weekend. Residents are also being asked to check periodically on their vulnerable neighbors, to ensure their health and safety through the storm.

Pets and animals should also be brought in for the duration of the storm.

Photo from Rick Uldricks, Patch