Heavy Snow Warning as 13 Inches Set to Hit Northeast

Forecasters issue winter storm watches, warn of dangerous travel conditions

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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The National Weather Service has issued a series of winter storm watches across the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions, warning of heavy snow accumulations of up to 13 inches in some areas and the potential for blizzard conditions this weekend. Meteorologists say the storm could significantly impact travel, with the possibility of dangerous driving conditions and disruptions to Monday's commutes.

Why it matters

Heavy snowfall can lead to power outages, school and business closures, and hazardous travel conditions that put public safety at risk. This storm comes on the heels of another winter system already impacting the region, raising concerns about the potential for compounding impacts.

The details

According to forecasts, the storm is expected to bring widespread snowfall of 4 to 6 inches, with some areas potentially seeing up to 13 inches of accumulation. The NWS has warned of the potential for blizzard conditions, with gusty winds up to 45 mph that could significantly reduce visibility and make travel very difficult or impossible. The heavy, wet snow could also lead to downed trees and power lines.

  • Winter storm watches go into effect late Saturday night in West Virginia.
  • Winter storm watches for other affected areas, including Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York, go into effect by Sunday.
  • The storm is expected to impact the region through Monday, potentially disrupting the morning and evening commutes.

The players

National Weather Service (NWS)

The federal agency responsible for weather forecasting and issuing alerts and warnings for hazardous weather conditions.

Dan DePodwin

AccuWeather's vice president of forecasting operations, who provided insights on the storm's potential impacts.

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What they’re saying

“Persons should delay all travel if possible. If travel is absolutely necessary, drive with extreme caution and be prepared for sudden changes in visibility.”

— NWS Charleston, West Virginia (NWS)

“Blizzard conditions possible. Total snow accumulations between 10 and 13 inches possible. Winds could gust as high as 45 mph. Travel could be very difficult to impossible. Areas of blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility. The hazardous conditions could impact the Monday morning and evening commutes. The combination of gusty winds and heavy wet snow could bring down tree branches.”

— NWS New York City (NWS)

“The exact track of this storm, along with how quickly it strengthens, will determine how much snow falls in the mid-Atlantic and Northeast. The supply of cold air is limited, and that could also affect snowfall totals.”

— Dan DePodwin, AccuWeather Vice President of Forecasting Operations (Newsweek)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This storm highlights the need for residents in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic to be prepared for potentially dangerous winter weather, with the possibility of power outages, school and business closures, and hazardous travel conditions. Heeding weather warnings and taking appropriate precautions will be crucial to staying safe.