Tens of millions of Americans are preparing for a significant winter storm that is anticipated to deliver the most substantial snowfall and lowest temperatures seen in over a decade.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), the storm, which originated in the central United States, is expected to progress eastward in the coming days.
A state of emergency has been issued for Kentucky and Virginia, while regions of the country that are typically not exposed to severe cold, such as Mississippi and Florida, have been alerted to the potential for hazardous conditions.
Meteorologists attribute the extreme weather to the polar vortex, a mass of frigid air that circulates around the Arctic region.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has indicated that this may be the most significant snowfall experienced in over ten years for some regions.
AccuWeather meteorologist Dan DePodwin remarked that this situation could result in the coldest January for the United States since 2011. He further noted that "temperatures significantly below the historical average" may persist for an entire week.
These low temperatures are also anticipated along the east coast, where the storm is expected to arrive by Sunday evening.
In the central United States, the National Weather Service (NWS) has warned of "substantial disruptions to daily life" and "hazardous or impassable driving conditions along with widespread closures" extending into Sunday.
Certain areas in Kansas and Indiana may experience snowfall of at least 8 inches (20.3 cm).
Blizzard conditions are a possibility in parts of the Midwest.
The NWS cautioned that "whiteout conditions will render travel extremely dangerous, with roads becoming impassable and a significant risk of motorists being stranded."
Sleet and freezing rain are predicted for Missouri, Illinois, and large portions of Kentucky and West Virginia.
As the storm progresses eastward, millions of additional Americans are expected to encounter record low temperatures, according to forecasters.
Cities such as Washington D.C., Baltimore, and Philadelphia are bracing for snowy and icy conditions from Sunday into Monday, with snowfall amounts ranging from 5 to 12 inches anticipated in parts of Virginia.
Additionally, on Sunday, areas in the southern United States, including Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi, may experience severe thunderstorms.
Private meteorologist Ryan Maue stated, "It is going to be chaotic, potentially disastrous. This is an event we have not witnessed in quite some time."
American, Delta, Southwest, and United airlines are currently waiving change fees for passengers due to the expected flight disruptions.
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