Millions of Americans are bracing for a wintry blast of snow, ice, rain, and storms, as a powerful winter storm disrupts travel, school schedules, and daily activities across the Ohio Valley, Mid-Atlantic, and East Coast.
Winter Weather Alerts for Millions
A vast area spanning 1,300 miles is under winter weather alerts, with over 55 million people affected from Missouri to New Jersey. The storm is expected to deliver significant snowfall, ice accumulations, and hazardous conditions, particularly impacting morning commutes and flights.
Key cities under winter storm warnings include:
- Washington, DC: Snow mixed with sleet is forecasted, with accumulations between 5 and 10 inches, and up to a foot in suburban areas. Read the latest DC weather updates
- St. Louis, Missouri: Snow and sleet are expected, with 3 to 5 inches of accumulation and gusty winds reaching 35 mph. Check St. Louis storm alerts
- Indianapolis: Snow and freezing drizzle will lead to accumulations between 2 and 5 inches, with winds as high as 40 mph. Indianapolis weather updates
- Philadelphia: Snowfall is estimated between 2 and 4 inches under a winter weather advisory. Philadelphia weather advisory
- Richmond, Virginia: Mixed precipitation could lead to 4 to 8 inches of snow and sleet, along with ice accumulations. Richmond winter weather advisory
Government Offices and Schools Close Due to Hazardous Conditions
The federal government has announced closures in Washington, DC, while states like Kentucky, Virginia, and West Virginia have declared emergencies. Public schools in DC, Alexandria, and Arlington, along with districts in Kentucky, Missouri, and Ohio, have canceled classes due to dangerous road conditions. Find school closure updates
Travel Chaos: Flight Cancellations and Stranded Motorists
The storm has wreaked havoc on air and rail travel:
- Over 1,700 flights were canceled on Sunday, with additional disruptions expected Monday. Check flight updates
- Amtrak has made adjustments to its services, with over 60 cancellations predicted through Tuesday. Amtrak service alerts
- Major highways, including I-29 in Missouri and sections of I-70 in Kansas, have been closed due to impassable conditions. State highway conditions
Extreme Cold Follows the Storm
Behind the storm, bitterly cold air will settle over the central and eastern United States. Temperatures are expected to plummet 30 degrees below normal, with wind chills dropping to dangerous levels. States like Texas, Nebraska, and Louisiana are under cold weather alerts, with freezing temperatures extending as far south as Florida by Tuesday. Learn more about cold weather alerts
Record Snowfall in Some Areas
Parts of Kentucky and Indiana are experiencing record-breaking snowfall. Louisville received 7.7 inches on Sunday, shattering a century-old record. Northern Missouri and Kansas have reported snow totals exceeding 10 inches, with blizzard-like conditions in some regions. Track snow totals
Polar Vortex and Climate Impact
Meteorologists attribute the severe winter conditions to a displaced polar vortex. Studies suggest that a warming Arctic may be increasing the frequency and intensity of such events, extending the icy grip of winter further south. Learn about the polar vortex
Stay Safe and Informed
Officials urge residents to stay off the roads and allow plow teams to clear major highways. The National Weather Service warns of life-threatening conditions, advising people to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel. For the latest updates, monitor local weather forecasts and emergency alerts. National Weather Service
Conclusion
This winter storm—potentially delivering the heaviest snowfall in a decade—is a reminder of the unpredictable nature of winter weather. Stay prepared, stay safe, and keep informed about conditions in your area.