The United States is bracing for a significant winter storm that is poised to impact tens of millions of citizens, bringing unprecedented snowfall and frigid temperatures not experienced in over a decade. The storm, which originated in the central states, is projected to move eastward within the next few days, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).
Residents of traditionally milder states, including Mississippi and Florida, are advised to prepare for dangerous conditions as forecasters attribute the severe weather to the polar vortex—an atmospheric phenomenon that funnels cold air from the Arctic. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has indicated that, "For some, this could be the heaviest snowfall in over a decade."
AccuWeather expert Dan DePodwin has commented on the potential severity of this storm, stating, "This could lead to the coldest January for the US since 2011." He further warned that temperatures may remain significantly below the historical average for an extended period, particularly affecting the eastern regions starting Sunday evening.
In the central US, residents can expect "considerable disruptions to daily life," as the storm could create "dangerous or impossible driving conditions," leading to widespread closures through Sunday. Areas in Kansas and Indiana are forecasted to receive at least 8 inches (20.3 cm) of snow, with blizzard conditions posing significant hazards in parts of the Midwest. The NWS cautions that travel may become perilous, with the risk of motorists getting stranded due to whiteout conditions.
As the storm progresses eastward, millions more Americans are likely to experience record low temperatures. Cities such as Washington D.C., Baltimore, and Philadelphia are preparing for treacherous snowy and icy weather from this Sunday into Monday, with Virginia expecting snowfall between 5 to 12 inches.
Simultaneously, the southern states, including Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi, may face severe thunderstorms on Sunday. Private meteorologist Ryan Maue has labeled the situation as "a potential disaster" and emphasized that this intensity of weather is rare.
In response to the expected flight disruptions, major airlines including American, Delta, and Southwest are offering to waive change fees for passengers affected by the storm.
Residents of traditionally milder states, including Mississippi and Florida, are advised to prepare for dangerous conditions as forecasters attribute the severe weather to the polar vortex—an atmospheric phenomenon that funnels cold air from the Arctic. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has indicated that, "For some, this could be the heaviest snowfall in over a decade."
AccuWeather expert Dan DePodwin has commented on the potential severity of this storm, stating, "This could lead to the coldest January for the US since 2011." He further warned that temperatures may remain significantly below the historical average for an extended period, particularly affecting the eastern regions starting Sunday evening.
In the central US, residents can expect "considerable disruptions to daily life," as the storm could create "dangerous or impossible driving conditions," leading to widespread closures through Sunday. Areas in Kansas and Indiana are forecasted to receive at least 8 inches (20.3 cm) of snow, with blizzard conditions posing significant hazards in parts of the Midwest. The NWS cautions that travel may become perilous, with the risk of motorists getting stranded due to whiteout conditions.
As the storm progresses eastward, millions more Americans are likely to experience record low temperatures. Cities such as Washington D.C., Baltimore, and Philadelphia are preparing for treacherous snowy and icy weather from this Sunday into Monday, with Virginia expecting snowfall between 5 to 12 inches.
Simultaneously, the southern states, including Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi, may face severe thunderstorms on Sunday. Private meteorologist Ryan Maue has labeled the situation as "a potential disaster" and emphasized that this intensity of weather is rare.
In response to the expected flight disruptions, major airlines including American, Delta, and Southwest are offering to waive change fees for passengers affected by the storm.
