Thursday: mixed bag of rain, wind, snow

DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) - A Winter Weather Advisory will go into effect Thursday at 7 p.m. through 10 p.m. Friday as the Miami Valley expects a batch of rain to usher in much colder temperatures and a change over to snow.

"We're not expecting a lot of accumulation, maybe an inch or two by the time it's all over," said Storm Team 2 Chief Meteorologist Brian Davis.  "But, blowing snow could be an issue, and of course, plummeting temperatures through the day."

A batch of rain is already falling across most of the area and may be heavy at times.  The cold front will pass through the Miami Valley around 7 p.m. and this is when the dramatic changes will take place.  Temperatures will drop and rain will change over into snow Thursday night.

Gusty winds will also be a concern Thursday night and Friday, making it feel even colder outside.

Travel on Friday morning commute may be a little difficult with possible icy roads, snow showers and winds gusting near 40 and 50 m.p.h.  "What will really feel like winter are the wind chill values on Friday.  Even though air temperatures will be near 30 with the winds it will feel like it's in the teens."    Says Storm Team 2 Meteorologist Tara Hastings.

Should you spot downed power lines, call DP&L at 877-4OUTAGE.  That's 877-468-8243.  You should treat every downed line as a live wire.  Never touch a power line.

DP&L also reminds customers to have a storm kit ready with a battery-operated radio, water, flashlights and batteries, first aid kit and blankets.