If you live in the northern U.S., brace yourself—Mother Nature is coming in full force. A powerful winter storm is sweeping across the region, bringing heavy snow, sleet, and dangerous freezing rain. Roads are already turning treacherous, flights are getting canceled, and power outages could be next. Here’s what’s happening and how you can stay safe.
Where’s the Worst of It?
Right now, the storm is slamming the Upper Midwest and Great Lakes. Places like Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan are seeing heavy snowfall, with some areas expecting up to a foot before it’s all over.
New England and New York follow farther to the east. While Buffalo, Albany, and Boston are anticipating heavy snowfall, ice poses a greater threat in other places. Roads are becoming quite slick due to snow turning into sleet and freezing rain as temperatures vary.
Travel Is a Nightmare
If you have travel plans, you might want to rethink them. Highways are turning into ice rinks, and visibility is dropping fast due to blowing snow. Accidents and road closures are piling up, and officials are warning people to stay home if possible.
Air travel isn’t faring any better. Hundreds of flights have already been delayed or canceled, especially at major hubs like Chicago O’Hare, Minneapolis-St. Paul, and Boston Logan. If you’re flying, check your flight status before heading to the airport.
The Biggest Concern? Ice and Power Outages
Snow is bad, but ice could be even worse. Parts of Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia are getting hit with freezing rain, and that’s a recipe for disaster. Ice can weigh down power lines and trees, leading to outages that could last for hours—or even days.
If you live in these areas, now is the time to prepare. Charge your devices, stock up on food and water, and make sure you have flashlights or candles ready just in case.
How Long Will This Last?
The worst of the storm should move out by Sunday, but don’t get too comfortable—meteorologists are already tracking another potential system that could hit next week. Winter isn’t done with us yet.
Stay Safe and Be Ready
This storm is no joke. If you don’t have to go out, don’t. Stay inside, keep warm, and check in on friends and family. Being prepared now can make all the difference.