National Weather Service Issues Winter Storm Warning for the Ohio River Valley

January 2026 Winter Storm Fern - Impacts expected across Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois, and Tennessee

Earlier in the week, I wrote about a possible winter storm that meteorologists were tracking. We’re no strangers to winter weather around here, so I wasn’t overly concerned. But now, they are throwing words around like "historic" and "catastrophic" like they are confetti. Oy.

National Weather Service Says It’s Time to Prepare

Over the past few days, things have changed, and the storm has moved farther north than first expected. That shift has put some of the worst parts of the system right over the Tri-State, making it ground zero for possible freezing rain and some pretty intense snow. Oh yay. Yes, that was sarcasm.

What the National Weather Service Is Saying

The National Weather Service has stayed very level headed, as usual. But they have also been very clear that if you have not prepared for this storm, now is the time, because it is a big one.

“A major winter storm is likely this weekend. Significant impacts are likely, and those with travel plans should plan accordingly. Dangerously cold temperatures and wind chill values are also expected into early next week.”

Right now, much of the Tri State is in a 70 to 90 percent probability of moderate impacts to daily life. That means use caution when driving and expect many businesses to close. There is also a 30 to 50 percent chance of major impacts, which would mean driving could be nearly impossible and most places would be closed. Yes, even Walmart.

How Much Snow Will We Get?

Of course, one of the biggest questions is how much snow we will actually get. At this point, there is about an 80 percent chance of more than 6 inches, and a 65 percent chance of 8 inches or more. Some meteorologists are even calling for totals in the 12 to 14 inch range.

Neat.

What's Changed?

The National Weather Service had previously stated that much of our area was just in for heavy snow but now they believe that a mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain is in the forecast for the southeast around Murray and Hopkinsville.

Timing of the Storm

Saturday: Snow, mainly after noon. High near 17°F. Northeast wind around 11 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90%.

Saturday Night: Snow. The snow could be heavy at times. Low around 14°F. Northeast wind around 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 100%.

Sunday: Snow. The snow could be heavy at times. High near 20°F. North-northwest wind 10 to 13 mph, with gusts as high as 18 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90%.

Sunday Night: A chance of snow before 8 PM, then a chance of snow showers between 8 PM and midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 3°F. Northwest wind 8 to 10 mph.

Winter Storm Warning Issued by the National Weather Service

In effect from Midnight CST / 1 AM EST Friday night to 6 PM CST / 7 PM EST Sunday

What

Heavy snow. A band of 8 to 13 inches of accumulation is expected, peaking roughly from around Poplar Bluff, MO, to Paducah and Marion, northeastward to Evansville and Owensboro. Other locations across southern Illinois and far southwest Kentucky can expect 6 to 10 inches.

Periods of heavy sleet are expected in far southeast Missouri and western Kentucky, with freezing rain mixed in. Some sleet accumulation and up to a light glaze of freezing rain is possible.

Where

All of southern Illinois, southwest Indiana, western Kentucky, and southeast Missouri.

When

From Midnight CST / 1 AM EST Friday night to 6 PM CST / 7 PM EST Sunday.

Impacts

Roads, especially bridges and overpasses, will likely become slick and hazardous. Travel could be very difficult.

What to Do to Prepare

Preparation is key. Here's a list of things to get or do before it's too late.

1. Take Care of the Basics First

• Top off your gas tank, even if you do not plan to drive
• Charge phones, tablets, and portable chargers
• Make sure flashlights work and you have extra batteries

2. Do a Smart Grocery Run
You do not need to panic buy, but a few essentials help.

• Bread, eggs, milk, and coffee
• Easy meals that do not require much cooking
• Snacks and comfort food in case you are stuck inside

3. Prep Your Home

• Set thermostats to keep pipes from freezing
• Open cabinet doors under sinks on exterior walls
• Drip faucets slightly during the coldest periods
• Bring pets inside and check outdoor water bowls

4. Get Ready for Power Issues

• Know where blankets and extra layers are
• Have candles or battery-powered lanterns ready
• Keep one room warmer and close off unused areas

5. Plan for Travel Disruptions

• Avoid unnecessary driving once snow starts
• If you must drive, pack a winter kit with blankets, water, and snacks
• Check school and work plans now so you are not scrambling later

6. Think About Neighbors and Family

• Check on elderly neighbors or relatives
• Make sure kids know the plan if schedules change
• Share updates with family so everyone stays informed

7. Stay Informed

• Download our app to stay up-to-date with changes and closings
• Ignore social media hype that is not backed by trusted sources
• Expect forecasts to change as the storm gets closer

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