Get ready for a wild week of winter weather. A powerful storm is on its way, bringing heavy snow, dangerous ice, and severe storms to millions across the country. Some cities could see up to 9 inches of snow, while others will face freezing rain, high winds, and even the threat of tornadoes.
With winter storm warnings already in effect, travel will be a mess, power outages are possible, and daily routines could be thrown into chaos. If you live in the storm’s path, now’s the time to get prepared.
Northeast: Get Ready for a Snowstorm
If you live in the Northeast, you’re in for a major snow event. Cities like Boston, Albany, and Syracuse could see up to a foot of snow, making roads slick and travel difficult. New York City and Philadelphia may not get as much, but they’re still looking at accumulating snow before switching over to freezing rain.
What does that mean? Slippery sidewalks, icy roads, and a high chance of flight delays or cancellations. If you have travel plans in the next few days, keep an eye on updates because conditions could change fast.
Midwest: Heavy Snow and Brutal Cold
For folks in the Midwest, this storm is coming in fast and furious. Cities like Chicago, Milwaukee, and Detroit are all expecting heavy snow, with 6 to 9 inches possible in some areas. On top of that, strong winds will make visibility awful, and temperatures will feel brutally cold.
If you can, stay off the roads when the storm hits. Snowplows will be working hard, but whiteout conditions could make driving extremely dangerous.
South: Not Snow, But Severe Storms Instead
While the North deals with snow, the South is bracing for a completely different kind of storm. States like Tennessee, Georgia, and the Carolinas could get slammed with damaging winds, heavy rain, and possibly tornadoes.
Winds over 50 mph could knock down trees and power lines, so residents should be prepared for power outages and stay alert for severe weather warnings. If you’re in the South, make sure you have a plan in case of storms.
Travel Problems and Safety Tips
Travelers are going to have a lot of hassles because of this storm. Road conditions are going to rapidly deteriorate, and airlines are already canceling flights. Make sure you have emergency supplies in your car if you’re driving, and check with your airline before you go to the airport if you’re flying.
Authorities are asking residents to prepare for unexpected weather changes, keep emergency supplies on hand, and try to stay at home.