WASHINGTON: A strong winter storm is hitting the Central US, impacting nearly 70 million people under winter alerts. The system is bringing snow, ice, and dangerous blizzard conditions, with wind gusts up to 50 mph.
Heavy snow and icy roads are causing hazardous travel from Missouri to the mid-Atlantic, with power outages likely. The NOAA Weather Prediction Center warns this could bring the heaviest snowfall in over a decade for some areas.
Blizzard Warnings and Emergency Declarations
Parts of Kansas and Missouri face blizzard warnings, including Kansas City, with up to 14 inches of snow expected. Visibility may drop to near zero, and blizzard conditions will make travel impossible in many locations.
Governors of Kentucky, Virginia, Arkansas, and Missouri declared emergencies ahead of the storm to coordinate resources and responses. Maryland’s governor declared a state of preparedness, anticipating significant snow and ice.
Ice Storms Create Deadly Conditions
An ice storm warning is in effect for southern Illinois, western Kentucky, and southeast Missouri through early Sunday. Dangerous ice accumulation could coat roads and bridges, making any travel extremely risky and discouraged.
Ice buildups between 0.25 and 0.75 inches are possible, with power outages expected in areas hardest hit by freezing rain. Even light ice coatings can create slippery surfaces, causing vehicles to lose control and accidents to occur.
Widespread Travel Disruptions
Kansas officials are urging residents to stay off roads after crashes were reported due to slick conditions. Kansas City International Airport temporarily halted flights Saturday due to ice, further complicating travel.
Flights may face additional disruptions through Sunday, with delays expected across other airports in impacted regions. Midwest cities, including Kansas City and Indianapolis, may experience record-breaking January snowfall totals.
Impact on the Eastern US and South
Snow and ice could disrupt Monday commutes in Washington, DC, and Philadelphia. Meanwhile, southern states are bracing for thunderstorms, with Louisiana, Arkansas, and Mississippi at risk for severe weather.
As the storm moves east, a dramatic temperature drop will follow, creating dangerously cold conditions across much of the country. The storm is expected to fully subside by late Monday, but its impact could linger for days.