Major Winter Storm Brings Snow, Ice, and Freezing Cold Across the U.S./ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ A major winter storm is set to impact the U.S., bringing heavy snow, freezing rain, and Arctic cold to millions. Blizzard conditions are likely in the Central Plains, while frigid air will sweep south as far as Florida, causing dangerous wind chills and disruptions nationwide.
Major Winter Storm: Quick Looks
- Storm Progression: Snowfall begins in the Central Plains Saturday and spreads east to the Mid-Atlantic by Monday.
- Blizzard Conditions: Whiteouts expected in Kansas and nearby regions, with travel disruptions likely.
- Freezing Rain: Ice accumulation may cause power outages from Kansas to West Virginia.
- Arctic Cold: Temperatures will plunge 12–25°F below average, with a hard freeze forecasted in Florida.
- Climate Connection: The Arctic polar vortex stretching south may be linked to rapid Arctic warming.
Major Winter Storm Brings Snow, Ice, and Freezing Cold Across the U.S.
Deep Look
A powerful winter storm will sweep through the U.S. this weekend, delivering heavy snow, significant ice, and an Arctic blast to millions across the country. The system, which began on the West Coast, is expected to cause widespread travel disruptions and hazardous conditions through early next week.
Snow Across the Central Plains
Snowfall is forecast to begin Saturday evening across central Kansas, Indiana, and areas north of Interstate 70. Some regions could see more than 8 inches of snow, marking the heaviest snowfall in a decade for certain locations. The storm will then move into the Ohio Valley and the Mid-Atlantic by Sunday, bringing severe travel disruptions.
Blizzard Warnings
Wind gusts exceeding 35 mph and heavy snow are expected to create blizzard conditions in Kansas and the Central Plains by Sunday morning. Whiteout conditions could make travel nearly impossible and increase the risk of stranded motorists.
Freezing Rain Threat
Freezing rain and sleet are expected from eastern Kansas to Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, and West Virginia. Accumulations of more than a quarter-inch of ice could result in dangerous travel conditions and widespread power outages.
“It’s going to be a mess, a potential disaster,” warned private meteorologist Ryan Maue.
Arctic Cold Grips the Nation
Starting Monday, Arctic air will plunge temperatures 12 to 25°F below average across the eastern two-thirds of the U.S. The Ohio Valley will see the most significant drop, while the Gulf Coast and Florida will experience unusually cold conditions, including a hard freeze.
“This could lead to the coldest January for the U.S. since 2011,” said Dan DePodwin, AccuWeather’s Director of Forecast Operations.
Jennifer Francis, a climate scientist at Woodwell Climate Research Institute, added:
“Just because the globe is warming doesn’t mean these cold snaps are going away.”
Climate Change Connection
The brutal weather may be linked to the polar vortex stretching south, an occurrence tied to rapid Arctic warming. Studies suggest that the Arctic, warming four times faster than the rest of the globe, contributes to these extreme cold outbreaks.
Judah Cohen, a seasonal forecast director at Atmospheric and Environmental Research, explained:
“The polar vortex, typically confined to the North Pole, sometimes stretches into the U.S., Europe, or Asia, bringing intense cold.”
Travel and Safety Tips
- Avoid Travel: During whiteout and freezing rain conditions, travel only if absolutely necessary.
- Prepare for Power Outages: Charge devices and gather emergency supplies in areas expecting ice accumulation.
- Stay Warm: Dress in layers and limit time outdoors during extreme cold to avoid frostbite and hypothermia.
- Monitor Updates: Stay informed through local weather alerts and forecasts.
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