Arctic Blast to Ease Next Week, But More Snow Chances Loom

Forecasters watching potential for more significant snowfall mid-week and again on Friday.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 5:31am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A prolonged arctic outbreak will continue through the weekend in the Cincinnati area, with several chances of near- and below-zero wind chill values and snow flurries. However, forecasters say temperatures will climb into the 20s and 30s next week, though still below normal. More significant snowfall is possible mid-week and again on Friday, February 6th, with 1-3 inches expected in some areas.

Why it matters

The extended period of bitter cold and snow has led to school closures and delays, and the potential for additional snowfall raises concerns about continued disruptions to daily life and travel in the region.

The details

The National Weather Service is tracking a system that could bring 1-3 inches of snow to the area in the middle of next week, as well as another system on Friday, February 6th that could also produce additional snowfall. While temperatures will improve next week, they are still expected to remain below normal, with highs only reaching the 20s and 30s.

  • Friday, January 31st: Mostly cloudy, with a high near 20 and wind chill values as low as zero.
  • Saturday, February 1st: Partly sunny, with a high near 17 and wind chill values as low as -2.
  • Tuesday, February 4th: A 50% chance of snow, with a low around 26.
  • Wednesday, February 5th: A 40% chance of snow, with a high near 36.
  • Friday, February 6th: Another system expected to move through with potential for additional snowfall.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for weather forecasting and issuing weather-related advisories and warnings.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“There is still a lot of differences in the prediction models, according to a discussion posted by the National Weather Service office in Wilmington. The mid-week system has the potential of 1 to 3 inches of snow with locally higher amounts. But this far out, there is uncertainty in the the timing, strength and location of the system.”

— National Weather Service

What’s next

The National Weather Service will continue to monitor the weather systems and provide updates on the potential for additional snowfall in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

While the bitter cold will ease next week, the Cincinnati area is not out of the woods yet when it comes to winter weather. Residents should stay vigilant and prepared for the possibility of more significant snowfall in the days and weeks ahead.