A potentially catastrophic winter storm is poised to strike the United States within hours, placing an estimated 100 million people under various weather alerts as they brace for extreme conditions. Forecasters warn that the storm, expected to commence on Friday and persist through the weekend, will unleash heavy snow, freezing rain, and sleet across a vast swath of the country.
Widespread Impact and Severe Forecast
The storm's path extends from New Mexico to the Carolinas, encompassing major metropolitan areas such as Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, New York City, and Boston. In the I-95 corridor cities, predictions indicate over a foot of snow, while southern states face a significant risk of half an inch or more of ice, which could lead to widespread power outages and hazardous travel conditions.
Extreme Temperatures and Windchills
Adding to the severity, windchills are forecast to plummet to as low as -50 degrees Fahrenheit in some regions, exacerbating the dangers of frostbite and hypothermia. This combination of heavy precipitation and frigid temperatures has prompted authorities to label the event as potentially crippling, with millions urged to take precautions.
Preparations and Resource Deployment
In response, state and city authorities across the affected areas are mobilising extensive resources to mitigate the storm's impact. This includes deploying snowplows, salt, and brine trucks to clear roads and maintain infrastructure. Emergency services are on high alert, with officials emphasising the importance of staying indoors and heeding safety advisories.
The storm underscores the increasing volatility of winter weather patterns, as communities prepare for what could be one of the most severe events in recent memory. Residents are advised to stock up on essentials, check on vulnerable neighbours, and monitor updates from local weather services.
