• Massive winter storm expected to affect nearly 30 U.S. states this weekend.
• Forecasts predict heavy snow, ice accumulation, and dangerously low temperatures.
• Officials warn of travel disruptions and potential power outages across the affected regions.

A major winter storm is set to sweep across nearly 30 U.S. states, beginning in the southern Plains on Friday and extending through the East Coast over the weekend. Forecasters anticipate heavy snowfall, sleet, and freezing rain, particularly impacting areas from Central Texas through to the Northeast, which could involve up to 160 million people, according to CBS News, NPR, and BBC.

The National Weather Service (NWS) has warned of dangerous travel conditions, stating that wind chills in some areas could reach as low as -50 degrees Fahrenheit, particularly across the Northern Plains, including North Dakota and Minnesota. Temperatures in states like Texas could fall into the single digits, leading to potential frostbite in just minutes, conveying the seriousness of the cold front's impact, as detailed by NPR and BBC.

As the storm progresses, significant snowfall is expected to blanket cities such as Memphis, Nashville, Washington D.C., and others, with some areas forecasting over 12 inches. Travel officials have already initiated alerts for substantial delays at major airports, including those in affected states, due to potential icing and poor visibility. As stated by CBS News and BBC, preparations are crucial as conditions worsen.

Many state governors, including those in Texas and North Carolina, have declared states of emergency to mobilize resources for expected power outages and other impacts on infrastructure. Texas Governor Greg Abbott emphasized the importance of preparation, reflecting on the devastating effects of the 2021 winter storm which left millions without power. This timely warning is backed by previous experiences and emphasizes the need for residents to be ready for potential disruptions, as highlighted by NPR, BBC, and CBS News.