A powerful winter storm sweeping across the Midwest and Northeast has placed over 18 million people under winter storm alerts. The system, which began impacting the region over the weekend, is bringing heavy snow, sleet, freezing rain, and dangerous cold—leading to significant travel disruptions and safety warnings.
Midwest Hit Hard by Heavy Snowfall
The storm first targeted the Midwest, blanketing states like Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan with several inches of snow. Areas near the Upper Great Lakes saw up to 8 inches, with some locations reporting as much as a foot of accumulation. Cities like Milwaukee and Green Bay were especially affected, with slick roads and multiple vehicle accidents causing delays.
Local officials have urged drivers to stay off the roads unless necessary. Snowploughs and salt trucks are working overtime, but road conditions remain hazardous due to low visibility and drifting snow.
Northeast Braces for Snow and Ice
As the storm pushes east, the Northeast is bracing for a mix of heavy snow, sleet, and freezing rain. Major cities, including New York City, Boston, and Philadelphia, are under winter storm warnings, with forecasters warning of treacherous conditions on roads and sidewalks.
- New York City is expected to receive 2 to 4 inches of snow before switching to rain, making the morning commute difficult.
- Upstate New York and the Hudson Valley could see 5 to 8 inches of snow, while Boston is preparing for up to 9 inches.
- New England towns, especially in Vermont and New Hampshire, have already reported 6 to 12 inches of accumulation.
Authorities are advising residents to limit travel and check for updates on public transit services, which may experience delays or cancellations due to icy conditions.
Flights Canceled, Roads Turn Dangerous
The storm has caused major disruptions in air travel. More than 380 flights have been cancelled and over 1,400 flights delayed as airports in Boston, New York, and Philadelphia experience the worst impacts. Travelers have been warned to check with their airlines for updates before heading to the airport.
On the ground, interstate highways and local roads are dangerous due to slick surfaces and poor visibility. Power companies have also warned of potential outages, as ice could accumulate on power lines and trees, causing them to snap.
An Arctic Blast Follows the Storm
This storm is only the beginning, say meteorologists. An Arctic blast is expected to follow, bringing temperatures 10 to 20 degrees below normal across much of the northern and central U.S. States in the path of the cold air mass should prepare for prolonged freezing conditions.
Residents are advised to stay indoors, stock up on essentials, and be ready for additional winter storms that could impact the region over the next few weeks. As the storm system progresses, experts are emphasizing the importance of monitoring local weather reports and heeding safety warnings to stay safe.