A potentially severe new storm is expected to hit parts of the United States before the weekend, raising concerns of life-threatening cold air that could bring snow and ice to approximately 160 million people.
The storm is projected to sweep through regions from Texas to the Carolinas, starting late this week and lasting through the weekend, potentially causing widespread power outages due to ice accumulation on trees and power lines. Forecasters have warned of the possibility of over 12 inches (30cm) of snow in certain areas, along with sleet and dangerous freezing rain.
According to a weather specialist, the impending storm is anticipated to be a significant and potentially catastrophic event stretching from Texas to the Carolinas. Ryan Maue, a former chief scientist at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, expressed concerns about the impact of the storm.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has also issued warnings of life-threatening cold air moving eastward from the High Plains and Rockies starting on Friday, affecting around 160 million people across 30 states with snow and ice. Some areas may experience a drastic drop in temperatures well below freezing.
The most severe wind chills (-46C or -50F) are predicted in the Northern Plains, while sub-zero conditions are expected in a large portion of the southeastern United States. The NWS has cautioned that these wind chills could pose a risk of hypothermia and frostbite to exposed skin.
Snow showers are currently affecting the southern Great Lakes region along the US-Canada border, as stated by the NWS.
Weather experts have advised residents in various states to prepare for over 12 inches of snow, stretching from Colorado to West Virginia and upstate New York. States that may receive similar snow depths include Kansas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Kentucky, and Indiana.
In the southern states, freezing rain may lead to tree damage, potential power outages, and localized flooding.
Forecasters have highlighted the difficulty in accurately predicting which areas may be hit hardest by ice accumulation. Keith Avery, CEO of the Newberry Electric Cooperative in South Carolina, emphasized the potential catastrophic impact of significant ice accumulation.