Millions of Americans face travel disruptions and dangerous conditions as a massive winter storm approaches, forecasters reported Saturday. The storm will deliver snow, ice, and freezing rain across much of the country in the coming days.
Widespread Snowfall and Blizzard Conditions
The storm will first hit the Central Plains on Saturday, move into the Ohio Valley Sunday, and reach the Mid-Atlantic Monday. Northeastern Kansas and north-central Missouri could receive over 15 inches of snow. The National Weather Service noted, “For some, this could be the heaviest snowfall in over a decade.”
Blizzard conditions are expected in the Central Plains, making travel dangerous or impossible. Indiana and central Kansas may see at least 8 inches of snow, while freezing rain and sleet could hit areas from eastern Kansas through the Ozarks to the Ohio Valley. Ice accumulation in the Central Appalachians increases risks of power outages and hazardous travel.
Winter storm warnings and advisories stretch from western Pennsylvania and West Virginia to far western Maryland. Snow totals in these areas could reach 6 inches or more. Lake effect snow warnings continue for parts of Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New York, with snow totals of 1 to 2 feet possible.
AccuWeather Meteorologist Brandon Buckingham stated, “Over a dozen states are forecast to be impacted by one or more aspects of this storm.”
Millions Under Winter Storm Alerts
As of Saturday afternoon, millions of Americans are under winter weather alerts:
- Winter storm warnings: Over 32.4 million people, from Kansas to Virginia.
- Winter weather advisories: Over 14.6 million people, spanning Montana, the Dakotas, Nebraska, and more.
- Winter storm watches: Over 11.7 million people, mostly in Mid-Atlantic states like Maryland and Delaware.
A winter storm warning means heavy snow or sleet is imminent, while an advisory signals lesser accumulations that can still disrupt travel.
Travel Risks and Bitter Cold Ahead
Forecasters warn drivers to prepare for hazardous or impassable roads. Blizzard conditions in the Central Plains will bring wind gusts over 35 mph and whiteouts. “Travel will be extremely hazardous, with a high risk of motorists becoming stranded,” the weather service cautioned.
In areas from Kansas to the Ozarks and Ohio Valley, travel risks include fallen trees and power outages due to over a quarter inch of ice.
Colder than average temperatures will linger after the storm, keeping ice and snow on the ground for days. Temperatures could drop 10 to 20 degrees below normal, affecting areas from the Rockies to the Appalachians.
“Brutally cold temperatures will extend through the upcoming week,” the weather service in St. Louis stated. Overnight lows in the single digits, combined with power outages, could worsen conditions in the region.