Key Takeaways:
- A major winter storm is expected to hit the US, affecting over 2 dozen states and potentially causing historic impacts
- The storm will bring heavy snow, sleet, and freezing rain, with some areas potentially receiving up to 24 inches of snow or more
- Freezing rain will cause major impacts, including power outages and extensive travel delays
- The greatest risk of a major ice storm will extend from Texas to the Carolinas
- Frigid temperatures will expand across two-thirds of the eastern US, with below-zero and single-digit temperatures expected in some areas
Introduction to the Winter Storm
The United States is bracing for a major winter storm that is expected to bring significant snowfall, freezing rain, and frigid temperatures to over two dozen states. The storm, which is forecast to hit starting on January 23, will stretch into the weekend, affecting areas from the southern Plains to the Northeast. According to AccuWeather meteorologist Bob Larson, this will be a large and potentially historic storm, with major impacts over a very large area.
Winter Weather Alerts and Warnings
As of January 22, winter storm watches, warnings, and advisories covered a huge stretch of the country, from eastern Arizona to the Northeast. Over 125 million people were under winter storm watches, with millions more under winter storm warnings, winter weather advisories, and extreme cold watches. The National Weather Service warned of "treacherous travel conditions, prolonged power outages, and tree damage" across the southern Plains, Lower Mississippi Valley, Mid-South, and the Carolinas. Local officials in these areas have urged residents to avoid traveling and prepare for possible power outages.
Storm Forecast and Expected Impacts
The storm is expected to produce "great swaths of heavy snow, sleet, and treacherous freezing rain" starting on January 23 across the nation’s midsection before shifting toward the East Coast through January 25. The storm may linger through January 26 for the New England region. Forecasters warned of dangerous ice conditions, with "broad swaths of significant accumulations" of freezing rain and sleet expected in the southern Plains, Lower Mississippi Valley, Mid-South, and the Carolinas. Local maximums above 12 inches of snow were "becoming more likely," and multiple rounds of snow squalls were forecast for the Northeast.
Frigid Temperatures and Wind Chills
Frigid temperatures are expected to expand across two-thirds of the eastern United States, with below-zero and single-digit temperatures forecast for the northern Plains, Mid-Mississippi Valley, Ohio Valley, and Northeast. Low temperatures dropping into the teens are possible in the Southeast and the Gulf Coast by early next week. The weather service warned that extreme cold in the wake of the system will prolong snow and ice impacts. Cold temperatures will also be accompanied by gusty winds, resulting in dangerous wind chills, with the coldest wind chills reaching 50 degrees below zero in the Plains.
Travel Disruptions and Safety Precautions
The weather service warned that snow-covered roads and low visibility would cause widespread travel disruptions, with snow squalls in the Northeast causing changes in visibility and slick roads. The agency advised motorists to reduce speeds, turn on lights and hazards, and avoid slamming on the brakes when encountering snow squalls. The public was also urged to avoid traveling in dangerous snow or cold conditions, and to prepare for a life-threatening cold, with chances of frostbite and hypothermia rising sharply by the weekend. Airlines have issued travel advisories and waivers ahead of the storm, and major hub airports are expected to be impacted.
Conclusion and Final Preparations
As the winter storm approaches, it is essential for individuals to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety and the safety of those around them. This includes preparing for power outages, stocking up on supplies, and staying informed about the latest weather conditions. By taking these steps, individuals can help minimize the impacts of the storm and stay safe until it passes. With the potential for historic impacts and significant disruptions, it is crucial to remain vigilant and prepared for the winter storm that is expected to hit the US in the coming days.
