Severe Winter Storm Blankets U.S. in Snow and Ice Alerts
As a deep winter chill tightens its grip on the northern United States, a significant winter storm is set to sweep across the country, affecting over 60 million people from the Dakotas to Delaware. This storm is expected to last through the weekend and into early next week, bringing heavy snow and ice alerts to a wide swath of the nation.
Storm’s Path and Impact
The storm, which began following Interstate 70 to St. Louis, is causing heavy snow and ice alerts from Kansas to the East Coast. In upstate New York, near and north of Utica, an ongoing lake effect snow event has already dumped three feet or more of snow. The storm is forecasted to continue its path eastward, affecting cities from the Ohio Valley to the mid-Atlantic with hazardous travel conditions.
Throughout Saturday, roads in Nebraska and Kansas became icy, with additional snowfall expected on top of existing ice accumulations. In Kansas City, the International Airport temporarily closed its airfield due to ice accumulation, with efforts underway to maintain safe operations amid challenging weather conditions.
State of Emergency Declarations
Several states, including Virginia, Kentucky, and Maryland, have declared states of emergency in anticipation of the storm’s impact. Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin urged travelers to adjust their plans to avoid potential disruptions, emphasizing the need for caution and preparedness.
Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear expressed concerns over power outages due to ice and snow accumulation on trees, opening warming centers throughout the state to support vulnerable populations. He urged residents to heed warnings and embrace safety measures to protect themselves and others during the storm.
Maryland Gov. Wes Moore issued a statement urging residents to avoid travel if possible, stay informed about local forecasts, and prepare for winter storm hazards. The proactive approach taken by these states underscores the severity of the impending weather conditions and the importance of readiness.
Forecast and Aftermath
By Sunday night, snowfall is projected to reach Washington, D.C., potentially leading to a treacherous Monday morning commute across the mid-Atlantic region. Baltimore and Philadelphia could see significant snow accumulations, adding to the challenges posed by the storm.
Following the storm’s departure, a portion of the polar vortex is expected to bring frigid temperatures 10 to 25 degrees below normal to the eastern United States. Sub-zero wind chills are forecasted from the Midwest to the Northeast, with freezing temperatures reaching as far south as Florida. The aftermath of the storm will bring bitter cold conditions, underscoring the need for ongoing vigilance and preparedness.
As this powerful winter storm unfolds, communities across the country are bracing for the impact of severe weather conditions. With safety and resilience at the forefront, individuals are urged to take necessary precautions and stay informed to navigate the challenges posed by this significant weather event.
