Takeaways:
- A major winter storm is set to impact over 1,300 miles of the U.S., bringing snow, ice, and rain.
- Significant disruptions to daily life, dangerous travel conditions, and power outages are expected.
- Severe thunderstorms and Arctic cold temperatures will follow the storm.
A sprawling winter storm is poised to unleash its full force over the eastern two-thirds of the United States, delivering heavy snow, hazardous ice, and severe thunderstorms to millions. This system, expected to evolve over the weekend and into early next week, could significantly disrupt daily life and cause widespread closures.
The Storm’s Path and Timeline
The storm’s development begins Saturday afternoon as a surge of moist air from the Gulf of Mexico fuels its intensity. Snow, ice, and rain will start spreading across the Plains, strengthening as it tracks eastward into the Mississippi Valley and Midwest by Sunday morning. By Sunday night and Monday, the storm will expand to the East Coast, impacting areas less accustomed to severe winter weather.
Regions including Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, and West Virginia will face the greatest snow accumulations. Meanwhile, areas south of the snowiest zones, such as southern Missouri and Kentucky, could experience significant icing. Exact outcomes remain uncertain as minor shifts in the storm’s path could drastically alter precipitation types and amounts.
Snowfall Predictions
Heavy snow is expected to blanket regions from Kansas and Nebraska to the East Coast. Accumulations could exceed a foot in the coldest areas, particularly in Missouri and Illinois. Cities like St. Louis, which has rarely seen more than a foot of snow in a single day, may witness such an event on Sunday.
Conversely, states further north, including Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan, will see little to no snow due to the storm’s southern trajectory. Any snowfall in these regions will likely be limited to lake-effect snow.
Icy Conditions Threaten Power Outages
The storm’s icy grip will target regions just south of the snow belt, with potential for ice accumulations exceeding 0.25 inches. Areas like southern Indiana, southern Illinois, and Kentucky face the highest risk. Even light ice can create treacherous driving conditions, while heavier accumulations may snap power lines and trees, leading to extended outages.
Severe Thunderstorms and Flooding Risk
The southern flank of the storm will bring soaking rains and severe thunderstorms to parts of Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas, and Mississippi. The Storm Prediction Center has issued a Level 2 of 5 severe weather threat, with damaging winds, hail, and potential tornadoes in the forecast. Flooding is also a concern in areas receiving heavy rainfall.
Arctic Chill to Follow
Once the storm exits the East Coast late Monday, Arctic air will surge in, plunging temperatures up to 30 degrees below normal. This frigid air will lock in the snow and ice, creating hazardous conditions that could last well into mid-January.
Preparing for the Storm
Authorities are urging residents in affected areas to:
- Stock up on essential supplies, including food, water, and batteries.
- Avoid non-essential travel during the storm’s peak.
- Prepare for potential power outages, especially in regions at risk for heavy icing.
- Monitor local forecasts and updates as the storm’s path and intensity could shift.
Conclusion
This winter storm is shaping up to be one of the season’s most impactful events, with widespread snow, ice, and severe weather on the horizon. As it barrels across the country, staying informed and prepared will be crucial to navigating the challenges it brings.