A powerful winter storm is hammering the central United States, bringing severe snow, ice, and freezing temperatures. Millions across the eastern US are bracing for blizzard conditions and hazardous travel through Monday.
More than 60 million people are in the path of this intense storm, which will bring Arctic air and winter weather across much of the eastern half of the country. The National Weather Service (NWS) issued warnings for dangerous conditions, including ice, snow, and strong winds, stretching from the central plains to the Mid-Atlantic region. The NWS stated, "Disruptive winter storm to impact the Central Plains to the Mid-Atlantic through Monday with widespread heavy snow and damaging ice accumulations."
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Travel disruptions and dangerous conditions
The storm is already causing significant disruptions to travel, with Kansas City International Airport halting operations due to rapid ice accumulation. The NWS warned of blizzard conditions in the Central Plains, creating "whiteout" conditions that could make roads impassable and increase the risk of motorists becoming stranded. The NWS reported, “Whiteout conditions will make travel extremely hazardous, with impassable roads and a high risk of motorists becoming stranded.”
Heavy snow is expected in parts of New York and Pennsylvania, with some areas potentially seeing up to four feet of snow, especially from lake-effect snowfall coming off the Great Lakes. Washington, D.C., could also see up to 10 inches of snow, while other areas could face freezing rain and sleet.
Bitter cold and power outages
Temperatures are expected to plummet across many regions, with some areas reaching below zero Fahrenheit (-18°C). Strong winds will further amplify the dangerous conditions. Freezing rain in parts of the Midwest and East Coast will create thick ice on the roads, posing a serious risk of accidents and power outages. The NWS also warned, "Widespread tree damage and long-lasting power outages are expected from Kansas to the central Appalachian Mountains."
Freezing rain is expected to coat roads, bringing down trees and power lines, and leaving millions without electricity during the cold snap. Governors in Missouri and Virginia have declared states of emergency, warning residents about the severe weather impact.
The bigger picture: Climate change and extreme weather
Scientists link extreme weather events like this to man-made climate change, which is making storms more frequent and intense. As the storm continues to move east, authorities are urging residents to prepare for dangerous conditions and stay updated on weather warnings.
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear said, "The new storm will likely cause significant disruption and dangerous conditions on our roads and could cause significant power outages just 24 hours or so before it's going to get really cold in Kentucky."
Agency
Published: 05 Jan 2025, 09:38 am IST
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