Winter Storm To Bring Historic Snowfall And Ice Threat

First winter storm of 2024 in the U.S. northeast, in Grafton

A powerful winter storm system is expected to impact at least a dozen states, bringing a mix of snow, ice, and blizzard conditions along with gusty winds up to 50 mph. The storm has already caused snowy and icy conditions in the Central Plains and is forecasted to affect up to 62 million people across a vast region stretching from Missouri to the mid-Atlantic.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Weather Prediction Center has warned that some areas could experience the heaviest snowfall in over a decade. The Winter Storm Severity Index predicts considerable disruptions to daily life, dangerous driving conditions, and widespread closures in parts of the Central US through Sunday.

Slick roads have already led to law enforcement activity in Kansas, with treacherous conditions expected to move eastward into the Mississippi Valley and parts of the Midwest by Sunday. The storm will then expand into the Ohio Valley, Southeast, and eventually reach the East Coast by Monday.

Some areas may see a mix of snow and ice, while others could experience a transition from rain to an icy mix. An ice storm warning is in effect for areas of southern Illinois, western Kentucky, and southeast Missouri, with significant icing expected in several regions.

Up to 62 million people may be impacted by the storm.

Winter storm to affect at least a dozen states.

Heaviest snowfall in over a decade expected in some areas.

State governors in Kentucky, Virginia, Arkansas, and Missouri have declared states of emergency in preparation for the storm. Travel is strongly discouraged in affected areas, and residents are advised to stay alert, monitor weather forecasts, and prepare for potential impacts.

The storm is expected to bring historic snowfall totals in some areas, with cities like St. Louis, Kansas City, and Indianapolis bracing for significant accumulations. Thunderstorms with damaging winds and hail are also possible in parts of the South.

As the storm moves eastward, temperatures are forecasted to drop significantly, locking in snow and ice across the eastern two-thirds of the US. The storm is expected to fully diminish by Tuesday, but its impact on travel, power outages, and daily life will be felt for days to come.