As the polar vortex influences the weather, states unaccustomed to such cold are urged to prepare for hazardous conditions and significant disruptions.
**Severe Winter Storm Set to Impact Millions Across the US**
**Severe Winter Storm Set to Impact Millions Across the US**
An unprecedented winter storm is on track to deliver extreme weather conditions throughout the United States, with forecasters warning of record snowfalls and plunging temperatures.
A winter storm of massive proportions is approaching the United States, promising to bring the heaviest snowfall and coldest temperatures seen in over a decade. The storm, which is currently central in the U.S., is on a trajectory toward the East, according to the National Weather Service (NWS). Regions typically shielded from severe winter weather, such as Mississippi and Florida, are now warned of impending treacherous conditions.
The phenomenon is largely attributed to a polar vortex, which is a vast area of cold air that typically revolves around the Arctic. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) indicated that "for some, this could be the heaviest snowfall in over a decade." With temperatures expected to remain "well below historical averages," AccuWeather forecaster Dan DePodwin stated that this January could register as the coldest since 2011.
Temperature plummets are predicted to extend across the eastern seaboard by Sunday evening. Central U.S. regions can anticipate "considerable disruptions to daily life," including dangerous driving conditions and widespread closures lasting into the weekend. Kansas and Indiana may experience snow accumulations exceeding 8 inches (about 20.3 cm).
In the Midwest, blizzard conditions could lead to whiteouts, rendering travel extremely hazardous, according to NWS alerts. Sleet and icy rain are expected to affect Missouri, Illinois, and extensive areas of Kentucky and West Virginia. As the storm advances eastward, a significant number of Americans will be subject to record-low temperatures. Cities like Washington D.C., Baltimore, and Philadelphia are bracing for potentially heavy snow and ice from Sunday into Monday, with Virginia forecasting snowfall between 5 and 12 inches.
In parts of the Southern United States, including Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi, the storm is expected to bring severe thunderstorms on the same Sunday. Meteorologist Ryan Maue emphasized the situation's gravity, stating, "It's going to be a mess, a potential disaster. This is something we haven't seen in quite a while." In light of the anticipated flight disruptions, major airlines such as American, Delta, and Southwest have announced the waiving of change fees for affected passengers.
