Janice R. Andrews
A powerful winter storm is poised to deliver a mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain across a vast 1,500-mile swath from the Plains to the East Coast. Beginning this weekend and lasting into early next week, the storm threatens widespread travel disruptions, power outages, and a blast of Arctic air, making it the season’s first major cross-country winter storm.
Widespread Snowfall Expected
The storm will stretch from Nebraska to the Atlantic, bringing significant snow accumulation and icy conditions. AccuWeather forecasts indicate 3-6 inches of snow across a broad area, with localized totals of 6-12 inches expected in northern Kansas, southern Illinois, and southern Ohio. Major cities like Kansas City, St. Louis, Indianapolis, and Cincinnati are in the storm’s path and could see substantial snowfall.
In areas from northern Missouri to west-central Illinois and northeastern Kansas, snowfall could reach up to 22 inches, based on AccuWeather’s Local StormMax™ projections. Cities such as Kansas City and St. Louis may experience varying snow totals depending on the extent of sleet and freezing rain mixing in.
Significant Ice Risks
South of the heavy snow zone, sleet and freezing rain will create dangerous conditions from the Plains to the Ohio and Tennessee Valleys. Cities including Kansas City, Tulsa, and Springfield, Missouri, are at risk for treacherous ice buildup.
The area from southeastern Kansas to southern Missouri and Kentucky faces the greatest threat, with a potentially destructive ice storm likely. Heavy ice accumulation could cause widespread power outages, road blockages, and damage to infrastructure, leaving some communities without electricity for days as temperatures plummet. Emergency shelters may be necessary to accommodate affected residents.
East Coast Impact
As the storm moves eastward, snow is expected to accumulate in cities like Pittsburgh, Baltimore, and Philadelphia, with New York City also potentially affected. However, a secondary storm system in southeastern Canada could shift the storm’s trajectory, pushing the snow and ice zones further south.
If the storm takes a more southerly path, areas like Raleigh, Richmond, and Washington, D.C., could see snow, while cities such as Atlanta and Charlotte might face icy or wintry conditions.
Severe Weather in Southern Regions
Thunderstorms are predicted along the storm’s southern edge, particularly near the I-10 and I-20 corridors. Some storms could become severe, posing additional hazards in areas already dealing with challenging weather conditions.
Arctic Blast to Follow
After the storm, an intense Arctic air mass will sweep through the Southern states, bringing some of the coldest temperatures in years. The frigid conditions could extend as far south as the Gulf Coast, compounding recovery efforts for those impacted by the storm.
More Storms May Follow
This winter storm could be the first of several systems expected to impact the U.S. in January. Meteorologists are closely monitoring another potential storm later next week, which could bring snow and ice to the Gulf Coast and up along the Atlantic seaboard.
Preparation Tips
Residents in affected regions are urged to prepare for significant disruptions. Travel conditions are expected to be hazardous, with icy roads and reduced visibility in snow-covered areas. Prolonged power outages may leave thousands without heat during an Arctic chill.
It’s important to stock up on essential supplies, test generators, and have a plan to stay warm if power is lost. Motorists should avoid travel during the storm’s peak and remain updated on the latest weather forecasts and advisories.
Conclusion
This massive winter storm highlights the harsh and unpredictable nature of the season. Its impacts, including heavy snow, dangerous ice, and frigid temperatures, will be felt across a large portion of the U.S. Early preparations can help ensure safety and resilience in the face of this severe weather event.
