A major winter storm is forecast to impact a vast swath of the United States this weekend, bringing a dangerous combination of snow, sleet, ice, and sub-zero temperatures from the Arizona-New Mexico border to upstate New York.
Understanding the Threat
According to the NOAA’s National Severe Storms Laboratory, a winter storm is defined by a combination of heavy snow, blowing snow, and/or dangerous wind chills, and is considered “life-threatening.” This particular storm is being driven by an area of low pressure moving north from the Gulf of Mexico, colliding with extremely cold Arctic air descending from Canada.
The approaching weather system carries a significant risk of ice accumulation. An ice storm is defined as one resulting in at least a quarter of an inch of ice on exposed surfaces, creating hazardous conditions for travel and potentially leading to downed power lines and trees.
Where the Storm is Headed
The National Weather Service warns that this “significant, long-duration winter storm” will bring “widespread heavy snow, sleet and freezing rain from the Southern Rockies to New England” from Friday through Monday. Communities are urged to prepare for “bitterly cold temperatures and dangerously cold wind chills.”
A crippling ice storm is expected to stretch from Texas through parts of the South. Snowfall could reach around 30cm (12ins) from Oklahoma through Washington DC, New York, and Boston. Following this, parts of Minnesota and North Dakota could experience temperatures as low as -46C (-50F).
Forecasters caution that the potential damage from this storm, particularly in areas experiencing heavy snowfall and ice, could be comparable to that of a hurricane.
Federal Response and Preparations
Approximately 160 million people – nearly half of the US population – are currently under a variety of watches, warnings, and alerts stretching from Arizona and Montana in the west to the Carolinas and Maine in the east.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is actively preparing. According to an agency document obtained by NBC News, FEMA has pre-positioned supplies and is deploying over 200 call centre specialists nationwide. These supplies include 250,000 meals, 400,000 litres of water, 30 generators, and shuttle drivers stationed in Louisiana, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Atlanta to facilitate rapid distribution of resources. 28 search and rescue teams are also on standby.
Residents are advised to stay home and off the roads, and to stock up on essential supplies. The North Carolina Department of Emergency Management recommends having flashlights, batteries, and backup power sources readily available. The Georgia Emergency Management Agency urges residents to monitor forecasts, gather supplies for both home and car, check safety detectors, and refuel vehicles and heating sources.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is considered a dangerous wind chill?
The National Weather Service warns of “dangerously cold wind chills” accompanying the storm, which can cause frostbite and hypothermia. The specific wind chill thresholds for danger were not provided in this report.
What areas are expected to receive the most snow?
Snowfall of around 30cm (12ins) is possible from Oklahoma through Washington DC, New York and Boston.
What should I do if I lose power?
Residents are advised to have flashlights, batteries, and backup power sources available. It is crucial to never run a generator inside a house or garage to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
As this storm system develops, will communities be able to adequately prepare for the potential impacts to infrastructure and daily life?
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