The National Weather Service warns that a massive winter storm originating in the central US will move eastward, bringing record-breaking cold and snowfall to several states. Areas unfamiliar with adverse winter conditions, including parts of the South, are particularly at risk.
**Bracing for Impact: Major Winter Storm Approaches the US**
**Bracing for Impact: Major Winter Storm Approaches the US**
A powerful winter storm, the most severe in over a decade, is set to sweep across the United States, impacting millions with heavy snow and frigid temperatures.
A historic winter storm is on track to hit the United States, with officials predicting it could be the most significant winter weather event in over ten years. The National Weather Service (NWS) states that tens of millions of Americans should prepare for potentially devastating snowfall and dangerously low temperatures, with the system initially forming in the central region and gradually moving eastward in the coming days.
The storm has raised alarms in states typically shielded from severe winter conditions, such as Mississippi and Florida, where residents have been cautioned about hazardous weather. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the ongoing extreme weather is a result of a polar vortex, which is a mass of frigid Arctic air settling over parts of the country. "For many, this could lead to historical levels of snowfall unseen in over a decade," they emphasized.
Meteorologist Dan DePodwin from AccuWeather stressed the potential severity, indicating a likely spate of record low temperatures for January, much colder than what is historically typical. He warned that these frigid conditions may last for up to a week. The impending storm is projected to affect the eastern seaboard, arriving by Sunday night and creating treacherous conditions across the area.
In the central US, the NWS anticipates "significant disruptions to everyday life," along with perilous driving conditions that could necessitate road closures into the weekend. Areas in Kansas and Indiana may be covered by upwards of 8 inches of snow, leading to dangerous travel scenarios.
In the Midwest, blizzard conditions are possible with expected whiteouts that may render roads impassable and lead to drivers becoming stranded. Regions including Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, and West Virginia are bracing for sleet and freezing rain, compounding the hazardous conditions.
As the storm travels eastward, millions more citizens will confront exceptionally low temperatures alongside potential snowfall figures ranging from 5 to 12 inches in parts of Virginia.
Additionally, states in the southern US like Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi could experience severe thunderstorms on the same day. Private meteorologist Ryan Maue cautioned, "It’s going to be chaotic, potentially catastrophic. This level of impact hasn't been felt for some time."
Airlines including American, Delta, and Southwest are proactively waiving change fees for travelers anticipating flight disruptions due to the extreme weather forecast.
