A new storm with the potential for catastrophic impact is expected to hit parts of the United States before the weekend, bringing life-threatening cold air that could result in snow and ice affecting approximately 160 million individuals.
The storm is projected to traverse from Texas to the Carolinas, potentially causing widespread power outages due to the weight of ice on trees and power lines. Forecasts suggest some regions could receive over 12 inches (30cm) of snow along with sleet and hazardous freezing rain.
Described as a potentially catastrophic event by a weather expert, the storm is anticipated to affect areas from Texas to the Carolinas. Ryan Maue, a former chief scientist at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, expressed concern over the severity of the impending weather conditions.
The National Weather Service (NWS) expects life-threatening cold air to move eastward from the High Plains and Rockies starting Friday, bringing snow and ice to around 160 million people across 30 states, with temperatures dropping significantly in certain areas.
Extreme wind chills, reaching as low as -46C or -50F, are predicted in the Northern Plains, while sub-zero conditions are anticipated in a large portion of the southeastern United States. The NWS issued warnings about the risk of hypothermia and frostbite due to these severe wind chills.
Snow showers are currently affecting the southern Great Lakes region along the US-Canada border, according to the NWS.
Residents in several states, including Colorado, West Virginia, upstate New York, Kansas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Kentucky, and Indiana, are advised to brace for significant snowfall exceeding 12 inches (1 foot). Meanwhile, states further south may experience freezing rain that could lead to power outages, localized flooding, and potential tree damages.
Forecasters highlight the difficulty in pinpointing the exact areas that may face ice accumulation, emphasizing the potential catastrophic impact of significant ice thickness. Keith Avery, the CEO of the Newberry Electric Cooperative in South Carolina, warned about the devastating consequences of substantial ice accumulation.
For the latest news updates, make Daily Mirror your ‘Preferred Source’ on Google News for convenient access to the news that matters to you.