As winter storm Cora descends upon the southern United States, it threatens to bring **heavy snow and ice** to approximately **50 million people** across 26 states, creating hazardous conditions that could disrupt daily life and travel. The National Weather Service (NWS) has indicated that the storm, which began moving eastward from Northern Mexico, is set to impact states including Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, Alabama, and Georgia as it progresses through the weekend. Accumulations could reach up to **14 inches** in some areas, particularly across **northern Louisiana**, **Mississippi**, and **Tennessee** ([Newsweek](https://www.newsweek.com/winter-storm-warning-26-states-14-inches-snow-2012876)).

By Friday morning, winter storm warnings were issued for a significant portion of the southern U.S., with predictions calling for **1 to 3 inches** of additional snow in parts of the **Mid-Atlantic** and the **Northeast**. As the storm moves, forecasts indicate a transition from snow to **sleet and freezing rain**, particularly in regions like **north and central Texas**, which could complicate travel due to icy road conditions ([USA Today](https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/weather/2025/01/10/winter-storm-cora-snow-ice-south-weather/77587392007/)).

States like **Georgia** and **Alabama** are bracing for significant winter weather impacts, with Georgia Governor Brian Kemp declaring a **state of emergency** as **freezing rain** and snow are expected to heavily disrupt local roadways. Similarly, Alabama Governor Kay Ivey has issued a state of emergency for 37 counties as school closures begin in anticipation of dangerous travel conditions. The **NWS** has forecasted **up to 6 inches** of snow in northern parts of Alabama, with similar warnings stretching across Tennessee ([New York Times](https://www.nytimes.com/2025/01/10/weather/georgia-north-carolina-ice-snow-forecast.html)).

In Arkansas, **Little Rock** is experiencing significant snowfall, attributed to the storm's path across the region, with totals expected to rise between **6 to 8 inches** or more. In areas north of the **Red River Valley**, forecasts indicate heavy snow accompanied by **ice accumulations**, creating treacherous conditions for travelers ([USA Today](https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/weather/2025/01/09/winter-storm-snow-forecasts-southern-us/77579857007/)).

Reports detail that **travel disruptions** are likely as conditions worsen, with experts advising residents to avoid travel unless necessary. As the storm progresses, areas impacted should prepare for ongoing weather advisories, widespread closures, and potential power outages due to **downed power lines** caused by ice and wind ([Newsweek](https://www.newsweek.com/winter-storm-warning-26-states-14-inches-snow-2012876)).

Stay updated on this developing weather situation as states brace for one of the most severe winter storms in recent years, bringing cold temperatures and snow further into the southern regions of **the U.S.**

For ongoing updates and detailed forecasts, visit USA TODAY, The New York Times, and Newsweek.