A major winter storm is expected to bring heavy snow, sleet, freezing rain and frigid temperatures from Texas to Massachusetts over the weekend, according to meteorologists. It is expected to affect more than 180 million Americans and could become one of the worst storms this winter.
Major metro areas in the storm’s path include Dallas, Austin, Oklahoma City, Nashville, Atlanta, Charlotte, Washington, D.C., Baltimore, Philadelphia, New York City and Boston, forecasters said.
The impact of snow and ice could cause power outages, widespread travel disruptions and school closures. After the storm, colder temperatures will prolong the effects of ice and snow. “Hundreds of thousands of people could be without power and heat for days,” AccuWeather Chief Meteorologist Jonathan Porter said.
At least 70 million people are under winter storm warnings from New Mexico to North Carolina and as far south as Texas, according to the National Weather Service. The agency advises people to “start preparing now for an impactful and long-lasting winter storm.”
How much ice and snow is expected — and where?
Expected snowfall totals.
heavy snow
“Heavy snow is expected across the Southern Rockies and south-central Plains east across the mid-Atlantic,” the weather service said. “Snow-covered roads and low visibility will cause widespread travel disruptions.”
Rainfall amounts of 6 to 12 inches are expected in the Central Plains, with more than 2 feet possible in parts of the Appalachian Mountains. Meteorologists say snowfall totals in the Northeast will depend on the exact path of the storm, but they could be heavy and farmable.
ice accumulation
“Lands of freezing rain and sleet are expected across the southern Plains, South Central and Carolinas south of the all-snow zone,” the National Weather Service said. “Hazardous travel conditions, prolonged power outages and tree damage are possible.”
In the South, thick ice will sweep from Texas to the Carolinas, crushing trees and power lines.
What was the timing and impact of the storm?
Friday’s storm impact forecast.
Friday
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By late morning or early afternoon, the Plains will be affected by snow, sleet and freezing rain, according to The Weather Channel. This includes parts of Kansas, Oklahoma, and northern and western Texas, and extends east into western Tennessee and northern Mississippi.
Saturday
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Snow, sleet and freezing rain are possible in Texas, Louisiana and Mississippi, while the storm moves northeast, affecting parts of Kentucky, Tennessee, West Virginia and the Carolinas.
Sunday
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By noon, winter precipitation will end in Texas, Oklahoma and the lower Mississippi River. But it will continue into the Northeast from the Ohio Valley, Virginia and the Carolinas. Heavy snow is expected across the Ohio Valley and parts of the Northeast. Snow and high winds are expected to continue into Monday morning across the Northeast.
What about travel disruptions and school closures?
More than 4,000 flight cancellations are expected across the country this weekend due to heavy snow and ice, according to AccuWeather. Schools in several states may also be closed as the storm persists in some areas.
