A state of emergency has been declared across several US states as authorities brace for a massive winter storm system that threatens to bring more than a foot of snow to vast swathes of the country. Over 70 million people across parts of 30 states are now under winter storm warnings from Friday through Sunday, with meteorologists anticipating further alerts and upgrades as the tempest approaches.
Extreme Cold and Widespread Impact Forecast
When the storm hits, temperatures are predicted to plunge dramatically, with some areas experiencing drops of up to 30 degrees below seasonal norms. The Dakotas and Michigan are expected to bear the brunt of this frigid onslaught, with wind chill values potentially falling between 35 and 50 degrees below zero in certain locations, according to the Weather Channel.
The National Weather Service has issued a stark warning, indicating that nearly everyone east of the Rockies will experience some effect from the snow, ice, or extreme cold from Friday into early next week. This widespread impact underscores the severity of the approaching weather system.
State Leaders Mobilise Resources
In response to the imminent threat, governors across affected regions have activated emergency protocols. South Carolina has declared a state of emergency, enabling officials to mobilise resources, activate the National Guard, and coordinate comprehensive response efforts. Similarly, Texas Governor Greg Abbott activated state emergency response resources on Tuesday to prepare for the storm's arrival.
North Carolina Governor Josh Stein declared a state of emergency on Wednesday, urging residents to take immediate precautions. 'A winter storm is approaching and now is the time to prepare,' he stated, advising North Carolinians to 'get everything you need in advance of the storm and have a plan in case your power goes out.' He strongly encouraged people to 'stay home and off the roads this weekend unless absolutely necessary, so first responders can do their jobs safely and effectively.'
Maryland Governor Wes Moore echoed these sentiments as he declared a 'State of Preparedness' to enhance the state's response capabilities and collaborative efforts for potential storm impacts. 'The safety and security of our residents is our top priority,' he emphasised. 'Please remain vigilant, listen to authorities, use common sense and complete emergency preparations as soon as possible.'
Forecasters Warn of Devastating Conditions
Meteorologists have warned that arctic air from Canada is expected to surge southward into the central and southeastern United States. This cold blast, colliding with the impending storm system, could result in one of the most devastating winter events in recent memory. The system will then draw moisture-rich air north from the Gulf of Mexico, combining with the bitter cold to produce broad swaths of heavy snow, sleet, and ice that may linger into next week.
By Sunday morning, cities including Dallas, Austin, and Oklahoma City could see wind chills dropping below zero. Record low temperatures are anticipated from Texas to Mississippi by Monday morning, with the National Weather Service office in Dallas warning about the potential for widespread pipe damage. After plunging the South into freezing conditions, the cold air is forecast to move eastward into New England, where temperatures could fall as much as 20 degrees below average for this time of year.
Significant Snow and Ice Accumulations Expected
Under the latest forecasts, parts of Appalachia could see up to two feet of snow, while New York City may receive up to a foot on Sunday. The southern US faces the greatest risk for significant icing, with a band stretching from central Texas through northern Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, and the Carolinas.
Jennifer Tate, a meteorologist at the Weather Prediction Center, highlighted this icing threat to The New York Times. Forecaster Gerard Jebaily from Fox45 in Baltimore described the system with unusual gravity: 'I don't ever say words like this: "This looks more and more like 'The Big One' for some parts of the US."' He added that the southern US, accustomed to milder weather, could be completely crippled by freezing rain.
Potential for Widespread Damage
Experts warn that ice accumulation can bring down trees and power lines due to its weight. One meteorologist in Minnesota even warned that trees could 'explode' in the state due to the intense low temperatures. This phenomenon occurs when sap freezes and expands inside the wood, causing trees to crack or split open abruptly, often accompanied by a loud noise.
Some analysts have suggested the damage from this storm could resemble the aftermath of a hurricane, with power outages potentially lasting for a week in the worst-affected areas.
Public Response and Disruption
As Americans prepare for the storm, panic buying has been reported in several states. Megan Monroe-Eaves shared footage from her local Walmart in Cullman, Alabama, showing the dairy section completely raided. 'My local Walmart because someone mentioned snow and ice,' she wrote. 'Time for milk sandwiches. I'll never understand panic buying, please tell me this is just a south thing.'
Similar scenes were reported in Oklahoma, where Kym Adams posted a TikTok showing people stocking up on cases of water, diapers, and bread. 'If you're from Oklahoma you know there's probably not any bread or milk left,' she remarked, predicting shelves would be cleared by Wednesday. Shelves were already empty at one store in Nashville, Tennessee, by Wednesday.
Travel and Event Cancellations
The storm has already caused significant disruption to travel and events. College sports schedules have been adjusted, with the Sun Belt Conference moving start times for several women's basketball games and the American Athletic Conference adjusting weekend basketball schedules. Major League Baseball's Texas Rangers were forced to cancel their annual Fan Fest event scheduled for Saturday 'in the interest of safety for players, fans and employees.'
Travel companies have begun warning customers about potential itinerary changes. Delta and American Airlines are offering to waive change fees for those traveling between Friday and Sunday in dozens of affected cities, while Amtrak has started canceling or shortening trips to 'limit exposure to hazardous conditions for our customers and team members.'
Federal Response Readied
Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced on Wednesday that federal emergency management resources are available and positioned to respond. 'We are anticipating a major winter weather event expected to impact much of the U.S. population this weekend, especially the Midwest and East Coast,' she stated.
'DHS is working with state and local authorities, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency to monitor and prepare for this likely adverse weather,' Noem continued. 'Please prepare and take precautions in the event of power outages, pipe-bursts, road closures, airport delays, flight cancellations, and freezing temperatures. Federal emergency management is positioning to effectively respond to these conditions, and is prepared to provide aid across the affected areas.'
