Massive winter storm expected to dump snow and ice across US
Forecasters warn that a strong cold front coming from the Arctic is expected to sweep across much of the United States, bringing snow and ice to about 30 states and affecting about 160 million people.
The cold front is expected to grow in the southwest on Thursday, then reach the east coast by the weekend.
Meteorologists say temperatures could drop well below freezing in some areas as the cold northern air known as the Polar Vortex settles into the country.
Transportation authorities, including airport authorities in many major cities, are warning travelers to be prepared for significant delays in severe winter conditions.
The weather system is expected to form over Texas and New Mexico before moving eastward, blanketing cities like Memphis, Nashville, Washington DC, Baltimore, Philadelphia and New York with snow.
Forecasters say temperatures in the interior plains states could drop to -40F (-40C) or even lower. The Rocky Mountain states are expected to see large amounts of snowfall through Friday.
While it’s too early to accurately predict snowfall totals in urban areas, some places are expected to see more than 30cm of snowfall, weather experts say.
Further south, states could experience freezing rain that could weigh down trees by covering them with ice, possibly leading to power outages.
The National Weather Service (NWS) warned that wind chills could reach well below average, creating conditions where exposed skin could be in danger of freezing within minutes.
“Along with extremely cold temperatures, we expect prolonged snow and ice impacts that may include hazardous travel conditions, power outages, tree damage, snow-covered roads and reduced visibility,” the NWS said in its forecast.
Governors in several states, including Texas, North Carolina and South Carolina, declared states of emergency, allowing emergency officials, including National Guard troops, to mobilize response efforts.
“Based on current forecasts, the State of Texas is taking action to ensure Texans have the resources they need before severe winter weather impacts communities across Texas,” Texas Governor Greg Abbott said in a statement. he said.
The warnings come amid memories of the bitterly cold winter storm that hit Texas in 2021, causing the power grid to collapse and leaving millions of residents without power for several days.
Officials warn that cold weather could again cause pipes to freeze and then burst. Roads can be closed for days, especially in southern states where de-icing equipment is limited.
Cold weather is expected to continue next week.
