This week, a powerful one-two punch of winter storms is set to blank a large part of the United States in snow and ice, with estimates suggesting that well over 29 million people are currently under winter storm warnings. With freezing rain and considerable snowfall expected, residents from the Midwest to the Mid-Atlantic are bracing for hazardous travel conditions and icy disruptions in daily life.
Expected Impacts from the Storms
As these winter storms move across the country, many states are getting ready for a tough battle against the elements. With more than 96 million people impacted by winter weather alerts, significant snow accumulation ranging from 1 to 6 inches is anticipated in various regions. Special attention is on Southern New Jersey, which could see amounts of up to six inches as the storms roll through. Known for its tricky winter weather, this area is not alone; states like Missouri, West Virginia, and parts of the Midwest are also experiencing alerts.
Winter Weather Alerts Across the Country
- Midwest and Mid-Atlantic regions are watching snow totals.
- Specific counties in New Jersey expect 4 to 6 inches of snow by Wednesday morning.
- Locations like Chicago could have a messy commute with snowfall expected to reach up to 8 inches.
- Heavy rain is poised to hit parts of the South, raising concerns about flooding in cities like Atlanta and Shreveport.
- The Rocky Mountains will face bitterly cold wind chill, plunging temperatures as much as 40 degrees below average.
Timing of the Storms
The first storm is already on its way. It will start affecting areas in Oklahoma and Arkansas on Tuesday. By Tuesday evening, moderate snow will spill over from Kentucky to Maryland, with Washington D.C. expecting around 4 to 6 inches of snow. Cities such as Baltimore and Philadelphia are bracing themselves for similar snow totals, while New York City could see a lighter finish of 1 to 3 inches, though isolated areas may experience up to 4 inches.
What to Expect After the Snow
While the first round of storms is hitting now, there are additional threats looming. The National Weather Service has indicated that a second batch of winter weather will likely sweep through on Wednesday night into Thursday, impacting states like Colorado, Kansas, and Nebraska first before transferring its attention to the Midwest, including major cities like Chicago and Detroit. And as if that’s not enough, there’s already talk of a third storm coming this weekend, just when residents thought they might catch a break.
Emergency Preparations Underway
In light of these warnings, many cities are springing into action, preparing emergency responses like snow removal operations and resource allocations to help mitigate the storm’s impact. Local governments are alerting citizens to make sure they have enough supplies at home, and to be aware of potential road closures and delays in public transit.
Stay Informed
As the weather continues to change, it’s important for everyone to stay updated. Local news channels and weather apps are a great way to keep informed about the latest storm developments and alerts. Residents are encouraged to check regularly to ensure they are prepared for whatever nature has in store.
Region | Expected Snowfall | Precautions |
---|---|---|
Southern New Jersey | 4 to 6 inches | Travel with caution |
Chicago | 4 to 8 inches | Prepare for possible delays |
Rocky Mountains | Cold temperatures | Stay indoors if possible |
South (e.g., Atlanta) | Heavy rain | Monitor flood alerts |