- By Shivangi Sharma
- Sun, 05 Jan 2025 05:28 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
A powerful winter storm is currently sweeping across the central and eastern United States, bringing heavy snow, ice, and extreme cold temperatures. More than 60 million people are facing dangerous weather conditions, including widespread travel disruptions and the heightened risk of power outages. The storm is expected to persist throughout the weekend and into early next week, with conditions that could lead to the coldest January in the US since 2011.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), the storm is unleashing Arctic air and severe winter weather across much of the eastern half of the country, stretching from the Central Plains to the Mid-Atlantic region.
The NWS has issued warnings for hazardous conditions, including heavy snow, ice, and strong winds, which could lead to dangerous travel conditions, including icy roads and possible flight cancellations. Accumulations of snow and ice are expected to cause significant disruptions, especially on roadways and in the air.
Winter Storm Set to Bring Record-Breaking Cold
"Disruptive winter storm to impact the Central Plains to the Mid-Atlantic through Monday with widespread heavy snow and damaging ice accumulations," the NWS warned. AccuWeather Director of Forecast Operations Dan DePodwin highlighted the potential for temperatures that are well below historical averages, noting that the US could experience its coldest January in over a decade. This intense cold will likely continue for up to a week or more, putting additional strain on residents and infrastructure.
Officials Urge Residents To Prepare for Winter Storm
The storm system initially made landfall along the West Coast on Friday afternoon, bringing rain to the Pacific Northwest and snow to the Cascade Mountains. As it moves eastward, it is expected to strengthen into a major winter storm, impacting areas from the Central Plains to the Mid-Atlantic. Meteorologists predict that the system will bring a mix of heavy snow, freezing rain, and strong winds across a wide swath of the US, including states like Kansas, Missouri, and Pennsylvania.
Officials are urging residents to prepare for severe weather by stocking up on essentials, staying indoors, and monitoring weather updates. The winter storm is also expected to result in school closures, cancelled flights, and widespread power outages, as the storm continues to wreak havoc across the nation.
