In brief
A significant winter storm is moving eastward from the Plains, resulting in heavy snowfall, possible blizzard conditions in the Midwest, severe thunderstorms in the South, and freezing rain in New England. This storm comes after a weekend of travel disruptions due to heavy snow and has already caused flight delays and cancellations. As it draws energy from a clash of frigid and warm air, the storm is expected to intensify, affecting travel and safety throughout the East Coast.
The United States is bracing for a powerful winter storm sweeping east from the Plains, fueled by an intense cyclone. Meteorologists predict that the storm will unleash a variety of severe weather, affecting much of the country in the coming days.
In the Upper Midwest, heavy snowfall and strengthening winds are expected, with the National Weather Service warning of blizzard conditions that could render travel impossible in certain areas. Snowfall totals might surpass a foot in the upper Great Lakes region, with some areas along the south shore of Lake Superior potentially receiving up to two feet of snow.
Conversely, the South is preparing for severe thunderstorms signifying a sharp cold front, bringing a quick temperature drop and strong north winds that will put an end to the record warmth experienced recently.
Within the next 48 hours, the storm is anticipated to bring a range of conditions including blizzard warnings in the Midwest, freezing rain in New England, thunderstorms across the eastern U.S. and South, and widespread strong winds. The situation may escalate as it intensifies, particularly as it pulls energy from the clash between cold Canadian air and lingering warm air in the South.
This storm follows thousands of flight delays and cancellations earlier in the weekend, which hit the Northeast and Great Lakes regions during a busy travel period ahead of the New Year. Meanwhile, California experienced drier conditions this past weekend after facing powerful storms that resulted in fatalities and dangerous conditions due to heavy rainfall, flooding, and mudslides.
