A major winter storm event will begin in the southern Plains on Friday and move through southern and eastern areas. Entering the East Coast over the coming weekend. Heavy snow, thick ice and freezing temperatures are expected to make the storm a potentially life-threatening weather event in nearly 30 states.
Map shows what to expect from winter storm
A low pressure system is expected to form over the Southwest and interact with incoming Gulf moisture and cold Arctic air, causing precipitation to begin on the southern Plains on Friday.
Map shows freezing rain, rain, sleet and snow expected during the January 23, 2026 winter storm. /Image source: CBS News
The system is expected to slowly move eastward, bringing snow and ice accumulation. Forecast models are changing as the event approaches, but it will affect more than half of the U.S.
Map showing where ice and snow may occur during the winter storm expected to begin on January 23, 2026. /Image source: CBS News
at the same time, polar vortex The hurricane, which usually sits high above the Arctic, is expected to descend into the eastern half of the United States starting Thursday and continue into the first half of next week.
This will keep temperatures well below average for this time of year and even bring record-breaking temperatures to some areas. Frostbite can occur in as little as 5-10 minutes if exposed to this dangerously cold environment. Wind chill temperatures are expected to be 40-50 degrees below zero in parts of the northern United States
Map shows cold weather warnings in effect across the Midwest and Plains. / Photo credit: CBS News
Ice is expected to accumulate along the south side of the storm’s track, but given its slow movement, accumulation amounts are expected to be between two-tenths of an inch and a half-inch. An impact of this magnitude could bring down power lines. Due to severe cold, power outages can lead to insufficient indoor heating, crippling communities.
A map shows which areas are expected to experience ice during the winter storm that begins on January 23, 2026. /Image source: CBS News
Likely snowfall amounts are fluctuating as forecast models continue to be integrated. Up to 5-10 inches of snow is expected across the Southern Plains as the system develops in the region Friday into Saturday.
Map shows freezing rain, rain, sleet and snow expected during the January 24, 2026 winter storm. /Image source: CBS News
As this system moves eastward, snowfall amounts will vary depending on location.
A map shows where snow is likely to fall during the winter storm expected to begin on January 23, 2026. /Image source: CBS News
Winter storm may affect travel plans
Roads and airports may also be affected. Some airports in the South do not have the de-icing equipment needed for planes to take off safely, which could lead to widespread flight cancellations and delays over the weekend.
Some airports where problems may occur include Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport; Will Rogers International Airport in Oklahoma City; Clinton National Airport in Little Rock, Arkansas; Memphis International Airport and Nashville International Airport in Tennessee; and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.
Map showing where freezing rain, rainfall, sleet and snow are expected during the January 25, 2026 winter storm. /Image source: CBS News
The roads can also become very difficult, if not impossible, to navigate due to the slick surfaces of major interstates such as I-10, I-20, I-30, I-35, I-40, I-44, I-49 and I-55.
People are strongly advised not to travel on the roads over the weekend, but people are advised to drive with caution if absolutely necessary. Officials urge drivers to consider carrying a winter storm kit that includes a reinforced cable, flashlight, shovel, blanket and extra clothing, as well as water, a first aid kit and other items to help survive if stranded.
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