A powerful new storm is poised to hit parts of the United States before the weekend, raising concerns of dangerous cold temperatures that could bring snow and ice to approximately 160 million people. The storm is expected to sweep from Texas to the Carolinas, potentially causing widespread power outages due to ice accumulation on trees and power lines. Forecasters have warned of significant snowfall exceeding 12 inches (30cm) in some areas, along with sleet and hazardous freezing rain.
Weather experts are describing the approaching storm as a potentially catastrophic event stretching from Texas to the Carolinas. Ryan Maue, a former chief scientist at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, expressed concern over the severity of the upcoming weather conditions. The National Weather Service (NWS) predicts that life-threatening cold air will move eastward from the High Plains and Rockies starting Friday, affecting around 160 million individuals across 30 states, with temperatures plummeting well below freezing in some regions.
The Northern Plains are expected to experience the most severe wind chills, reaching as low as -46C or -50F, while parts of the southeastern U.S. are also bracing for sub-zero temperatures. The NWS has cautioned that these extreme wind chills pose a risk of hypothermia and frostbite to exposed skin. Additionally, snow showers are currently affecting the southern Great Lakes region along the U.S.-Canada border.
Residents in various states, including Colorado, West Virginia, upstate New York, Kansas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Kentucky, and Indiana, should prepare for over 12 inches of snow accumulation. Further south, freezing rain may lead to tree damage, power outages, and localized flooding.
Forecasters admit the challenge of pinpointing which areas will be hit hardest by ice accumulation, emphasizing the potential catastrophic impact of even a small amount of ice. Keith Avery, CEO of the Newberry Electric Cooperative in South Carolina, highlighted the risks associated with significant ice buildup.
