Latest local news, weather and high school sports for Toledo area

A BIG winter storm will move in by late morning and stick around for the next 36 hours offering everything from freezing rain to sleet, rain, heavy rain, possible thunder and then snow.  How's that sound?

The "warm sector" of the storm moves in by mid-day.  With surface temperatures at, or slightly below, the freezing mark the initial round of precipitation will likely fall as a quick burst of snow, followed by a period of freezing rain... enough to make things slick and slushy on area roads that aren't treated with salt & brine.  By early to mid afternoon the warm air will work its way to the surface and we will see the wintery mix transition to a moderate and, at times, heavy, cold rain.  There could even be a few rumbles of thunder late this afternoon into early evening  Highs get into the mid 30's with winds gusting out of the east to 35 MPH.  It will be a damp raw afternoon so bundle up and don't forget your umbrella.

This evening cooler air will begin wrapping into the center of the storm as it passes overhead.  We will see the rain turn back to snow.  Snow showers, mixed with some sleet south of the Maumee River Valley, will begin to accumulate and likely lead to a very slippery Wednesday morning commute.  Prepare for some driving challenges early - and actually, throughout the day.  We will also see some scheduling/logistical challenges as many area schools are likely to be offering delays and closings for the day.  Head to www.northwestohio.com for all of the latest!

Scattered snow showers will continue throughout the day Wednesday with total storm accumulations of 2 - 5" by late afternoon.  The most snow will be seen across SE Michigan and NW Ohio with lesser amounts as you work your way south of the Maumee and BG and into central Ohio.  Allow extra time and space if traveling on the roads anywhere in the region throughout the day.

We'll see more in the way of scattered snow showers & flurries Wednesday night and Thursday as we turn colder for the end of the work week and the upcoming weekend.