Heavy Snow Warnings as 80 mph Winds, More Than 12 Inches Approach: 'Dangerous' Easter Travel

Easter weekend is finally here, but instead of hopping outside for an Easter egg hunt, much of the upper Midwest will be hunkered down in their homes as a strong winter storm rolls through.

More than a foot of snow and dangerous winds are expected across the Midwest and Great Lakes regions.

"The system will also bring chances for moderate to heavy snow and icing across northern U.S. into Sunday for Northern Plains and Upper Midwest but will taper off by Saturday night," the National Weather Service announced.

"Snowfall rates of 1-2"/hr is expected across eastern North Dakota into northern Minnesota. Late Saturday into Sunday, the warm front across Northern New England will bring chances for a wintry mix over northern Maine. By Sunday afternoon, the precipitation is expected to transition to rain."

Strong Winter Storm Will Impact Easter Travel as More Than 1 Foot of Snow Drops

On Saturday, April 4 the National Weather Service issued a new forecast that showed heavy snow warnings for North Dakota, South Dakota and Minnesota as well as the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.

"Snow will continue to expand from the Dakotas into central/northern Minnesota early this morning and last through much of today, with intense snowfall rates of one to two inches per hour likely," the National Weather Service's prediction center said.

"Widespread snowfall totals of more than eight inches are expected and may exceed 12 inches in some areas. These heavy snow rates combined with gusty winds will result in snow-covered roads, blowing and drifting snow, and reduced visibility, leading to dangerous travel."

Here are the latest Key Messages for the ongoing winter storm extending from the Dakotas to northern Michigan today. Be prepared for impacts associated with heavy snow and significant icing across this region. ❄️ pic.twitter.com/hrSfWKGd20

— NWS Weather Prediction Center (@NWSWPC) April 4, 2026

Dangerous Winds Expected Throughout Ohio Valley

While the Upper Peninsula of Michigan deals with heavy snowfall once again, the Lower Peninsula is in for strong winds that could hit 80 mph, according to Accuweather.

In a statement provided by Accuweather's Vice President of Forecasting Operations Dan DePodwin, those hoping to travel on Easter weekend received a healthy warning.

"People traveling for the holiday and spring break should prepare for delays at the airport and slowdowns on the highway," said DePodwin. "Gusty thunderstorms could trigger ground stops during one of the busiest travel weekends of spring."

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