Winter Storm to Impact Large Areas of U.S. This Weekend: NPR
A significant winter storm is poised to affect large areas of the United States this weekend, running from Central Texas to the Northeast. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued alerts indicating heavy snowfall, sleet, and freezing rain will commence on Friday, impacting millions across several states.
Storm Overview
According to the NWS, the storm will bring severe weather conditions including:
- Heavy snow and ice accumulation.
- Treacherous travel conditions.
- Prolonged power outages and potential tree damage.
The storm is expected to spread across the East Coast throughout the weekend. Government officials are advising residents to prepare for possible power outages and to refrain from travel if conditions worsen.
Cold Front and Wind Chill
A cold front from Canada will interact with warmer southern air, leading to severe winter weather. Forecasters predict wind chills could plummet below negative 50 degrees Fahrenheit in the Northern Plains, affecting states like North Dakota and Minnesota. Meanwhile, parts of Texas and North Carolina may experience wind chills below zero.
States Under Alert
Winter storm watches have been put in place across several states, including:
- Texas
- Oklahoma
- Arkansas
- Mississippi
- Kentucky
- Missouri
- Louisiana
- Tennessee
- North Carolina
- West Virginia
- Virginia
Historical Context and Preparedness
In Texas, Governor Greg Abbott has announced the activation of state emergency resources in anticipation of the storm. Residents are urged to prepare for freezing rain and snow, recalling the severe winter storm of 2021 that caused widespread power outages and numerous fatalities. Although temperatures are not expected to reach the extreme lows of 2021, the impending cold is still considered dangerous.
“We want people to prepare ahead of the storm,” said Allison Prater, a meteorologist with the NWS in Fort Worth. “Hazardous conditions are expected to worsen throughout the weekend.”
Impacts in Other States
Other states are similarly gearing up for the storm. Georgia’s Governor Brian Kemp announced preparations are already underway, with teams ready to treat roads. He encourages residents to stock up on essentials.
North Carolina’s Governor Josh Stein has also declared a state of emergency, advising residents to check the state’s emergency information resources and prepare for potential outages. Meteorologists in Tennessee predict hazardous travel conditions and longer-lasting impacts from ice accumulation, raising concerns for power disruptions and downed trees.
The impending winter storm represents one of the most substantial winter weather events the United States has faced in recent memory. Residents across the affected states are advised to stay informed and take necessary precautions as they prepare for significant winter weather this weekend.
