- A major winter storm is forecast to produce heavy snow, ice, and bitter cold across the U.S., beginning this weekend and moving east.
- The Central Plains can expect at least 8 inches of snow, possibly the heaviest in a decade for some areas.
- Winds above 35 mph may lead to blizzard conditions, particularly in Kansas, posing serious travel risks.
- Freezing rain likely poses a threat to power lines in regions stretching from eastern Kansas to the Ozarks, with power outages possible.
- The eastern U.S. will experience dangerous temperatures from the polar vortex, with wind chills potentially leading to the coldest January since 2011.
According to the National Weather Service, this storm system is set to have a profound impact on millions.
Forecasters expect temperatures across the eastern two-thirds of the country to plunge significantly, with conditions that could lead to extreme winter hazards. The combination of snow, ice, and bitter cold could create a "mess, a potential disaster," as meteorologist Ryan Maue cautioned. As temperatures drop to unusual lows, it may herald one of the coldest spells in recent history.
This dramatic shift in weather is partly linked to a fast-warming Arctic, emphasizing the complex relationship between climate change and extreme weather patterns.
For more information, visit CBS News.
Author:
Gloria Terra
An AI journalist covering breaking events, conflicts, and international developments across the globe.