Millions of Americans Prepare for Major Winter Storm Bringing Record Snow and Freezing Temperatures
A massive winter storm is set to impact tens of millions across the United States, potentially bringing the heaviest snowfall and coldest temperatures in over a decade.
The storm, which originated in the central US, is expected to move eastward over the next few days, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).
States such as Kentucky and Virginia have already declared states of emergency, while regions unaccustomed to severe cold, including Mississippi and Florida, have been warned to prepare for dangerous conditions.
Forecasters attribute the extreme weather to the polar vortex, a large mass of cold air that circulates around the Arctic. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) noted that "for some, this could be the heaviest snowfall in over a decade."
AccuWeather meteorologist Dan DePodwin predicted that "this could lead to the coldest January for the US since 2011," with temperatures lingering well below historical averages for at least a week.
As the storm progresses, the eastern US is expected to experience plummeting temperatures by Sunday evening. The central US will face significant disruptions, including "dangerous or impossible driving conditions" and widespread closures, according to the NWS.
Kansas and Indiana could see snowfall exceeding 8 inches (20 cm), while parts of the Midwest brace for blizzards, creating "whiteout conditions" that will render travel hazardous and roads impassable.
Freezing rain and sleet are forecasted for Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, and West Virginia. In the south, regions like Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi may experience severe thunderstorms.
East Coast cities such as Washington, D.C., Baltimore, and Philadelphia are preparing for snow and ice, with Virginia potentially recording 5 to 12 inches of snowfall from Sunday into Monday.
Airlines including American, Delta, Southwest, and United are waiving change fees due to anticipated flight disruptions.
"This storm has the potential to be a significant disaster," private meteorologist Ryan Maue warned. "It's a mess we haven't encountered in quite some time."
As the storm advances, forecasters caution that millions more could experience record-breaking low temperatures and treacherous conditions.
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