Millions of Americans in the Ohio Valley to the mid-Atlantic are preparing for a wintry Monday with heavy snowfall, ice, rain, and storms that are expected to disrupt daily routines. The East Coast, including Washington, DC, is bracing for significant snow accumulations, with up to 16 inches in some areas.
Businesses and government agencies are announcing closures, and several states have already been impacted by inclement weather, leading to major highway shutdowns and stranded motorists. The storm, spanning 1,300 miles, has placed over 55 million people under winter weather alerts.
Tragically, at least 3 people have lost their lives in traffic accidents in Kansas and Missouri due to the storm. The US federal government offices in Washington will be closed on Monday, affecting flights to major airports in the region.
State governors have declared emergencies in Kentucky, Virginia, West Virginia, Arkansas, Missouri, and New Jersey, with the National Guard deployed to assist stranded motorists. The storm is expected to bring freezing temperatures and dangerous driving conditions across the Central and Eastern US.
Schools from the East Coast to the Midwest are facing closures and delays as they reopen after the holiday break. Public schools in Washington, DC, Alexandria, and Arlington, Virginia, will be closed on Monday due to the weather conditions.
The winter storm has caused power outages affecting over 230,000 customers across five states. The National Weather Service predicts extensive snowfall in the Central Appalachians and mid-Atlantic regions.
Significant icing is expected in several areas, making travel hazardous. Kentucky's Governor emphasized the seriousness of the storm, urging caution and preparedness.
As the storm progresses, the National Weather Service warns of dangerous ice accumulation and significant icing in various states. The storm is expected to impact travel and daily life through Monday, with blizzard conditions and strong winds affecting several regions.
Residents in the South can expect rain and thunderstorms, with the storm set to diminish in impact by late Monday. Tornado watches have been issued in parts of Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi, with confirmed tornadoes reported in some areas.
