Key takeaways:
– Winter Storm Blair threatens to bring severe winter weather across several US states.
– The National Weather Service warns of dangerous travel conditions, damage to trees, and power outages.
– Fifteen states under winter storm warnings including Kentucky, Indiana, and Maryland, among others.
– Forecast suggests storm could be the worst in a decade for some regions.
– Preparation is advised, such as preparing a vehicle emergency kit and being prepared for sudden visibility changes.
As we step into the new year, the United States braces for blistering gusts and heavy snowfall as Winter Storm Blair looms overhead. Several states across the country face the onslaught of this severe winter weather, threatening to make travel conditions extremely difficult and hazardous.
Predicted Severity of Winter Storm Blair
Regarded with impending dread, Winter Storm Blair is expected to be a major winter event. Alerting the populace on Friday, the National Weather Service (NWS) issued a warning, stating that all types of travel would likely prove challenging and extremely hazardous in regions anticipating heavy snowfall or notable ice accumulation.
In addition to travel impediments, the NWS also predicted likely power outages and widespread tree damage due to ice buildups. On an even more chilling note, Paul Pastelok, AccuWeather’s lead long-range expert, stated, “This could end up being the coldest January since 2011 for the U.S. as a whole.”
States Under Winter Storm Warnings
The sweep of Winter Storm Blair is broad, with winter storm warnings in effect for fifteen states including Kentucky, Indiana, Maryland, West Virginia, Kansas, Montana, Illinois, Iowa, Missouri, Alaska, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Nebraska.
The NWS predicts that territories extending from central Kansas to Indiana stand a 60%-90% chance of receiving a minimum of eight inches of snow. Certain regions, particularly Kansas and Missouri, could see up to an eye-watering 14 inches. The NWS has labeled this as potentially the worst snowfall in at least ten years for areas with the heaviest snow.
Preparing for Winter Storm Blair
Being prepared for severe weather is crucial. Ensuring an emergency kit is in all vehicles is a must. This kit should include a flashlight, food, water, and tire chains, to name a few essentials. Furthermore, non-essential travel should be avoided. If travel is unavoidable, extreme caution should be exercised. Sudden visibility changes should be anticipated, while keeping a safe distance from other vehicles. Reaching your destination will likely take more time than usual under these conditions.
Impulsively braking or accelerating should be avoided under these slippery driving conditions. Special care should be taken while negotiating bends and ascents. Ensuring that vehicles are winterized and in good functioning order is highly advised.
For those located in ice-prone areas, the NWS proposes preparing a winter storm kit which should comprise tire chains, booster cables, a flashlight, a shovel, blankets, extra clothes, water, a first-aid kit, and any other supplies that might come in handy if you’re stranded.
In these unsettling times, everyone affected by Winter Storm Blair is reminded to be prepared, vigilant and proactive to keep themselves and loved ones safe. The severity of the predicted weather is significant, but with the right preparations, potential risks can be managed and mitigated effectively.
Undeniably, Winter Storm Blair is set to have a substantial impact across the United States, but the unity and resilience of communities across the nation will surely weather this challenging storm. So brace for impact, stay safe, and remember, spring is just a few short months away.