Millions of residents are preparing for record snowfall and freezing temperatures as a massive winter storm swept across the United States. The polar vortex-driven weather event has put 30 states under weather alerts, stretching from the Midwest into those southern states unaccustomed with the severest winter conditions.
Alerts and Emergency Declarations Spread
Kentucky, Virginia, Kansas, Arkansas and Missouri have all declared states of emergency in advance of the storm’s impacts. Areas less used to extreme cold, Mississippi and Florida included, are preparing for ice that could make travel hazardous and knock out power. The National Weather Service says the storm system will strengthen as it tracks eastward and will affect millions into the weekend.
Dangerous Travel Conditions
Roads across central states have already become dangerous, with several accidents, including an overturned fire truck in Kansas. A state highway patrol officer made light of the dangerous conditions when he showed just how slick the roads have gotten in a social media post that has gone viral. The NWS warned drivers in affected areas to refrain from traveling unless necessary due to whiteout conditions and icy roads that make driving hazardous.
Blizzards are forecasted across the Midwest, with up to 8 inches of snow in some parts. This will no doubt cause numerous roadways to shut down and severely impact living conditions. Forecasters stress how motorists may be stranded and beg people to take all measures for caution.
Severe Weather Spreads East and South
The snowfall in the areas of Washington, D.C., Baltimore, and Philadelphia could be from 5 to 12 inches as the storm heads east. However, areas to the south of the U.S.-Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi-could be targeted by severe thunderstorms with freezing rain. It is very unexpected weather in those areas and might cause massive power outages, along with a lot of damage.
The polar vortex, a system of icy air circulating the Arctic, is driving this extreme weather pattern. Private meteorologists have termed it a potentially disastrous storm as it has the capability to disrupt sections of the country.
Lingering Effects of Record Cold
Forecasters have warned that bitterly cold temperatures could persist well into next week and may mark what could be the coldest January since 2011. The residents have been asked to prepare for protracted disruption and make available supplies to see them through the inclement weather.
As the storm continues to intensify, cities across the country are taking measures to keep citizens safe by opening warming shelters and providing travel advisories. The airlines have also made attempts to reduce disruptions in travel; major carriers have announced the waiving of their change fees for passengers affected.
This weather incident is unprecedented and has given a grim reminder of the forces of nature-the challenges that resolute communities are putting up in mitigation.
