The National Weather Service predicts the first **winter storm** of the year to form this weekend, affecting the **midwest, south,** and **east**.
Expected impacts include **heavy snow, ice,** and potentially **record-setting low temperatures** as the storm moves across the Central Plains and into the Ohio and Tennessee valleys.
Forecasts indicate **6 to 12 inches of snow** may occur in regions downwind of the **Great Lakes**, with significant sleet affecting parts of the **Ozarks** and surrounding areas.
The eastern U.S. is anticipated to experience **frigid arctic air**, with **moderate snow impacts** likely in states such as **Missouri, Indiana, Virginia,** and **Kentucky**.
Experts suggest this storm could result in the **coldest January** temperatures in the U.S. since 2011, lasting several days.