What to know about winter storm bringing snow, ice, and arctic freeze

A powerful winter storm is sweeping across the central U.S. this weekend, bringing heavy snow, dangerous ice, and frigid temperatures that will affect millions across the eastern two-thirds of the country, according to the National Weather Service. Here’s what to expect:

Winter Storm Takes Shape Across Central U.S.

The system responsible for this major storm made landfall on the West Coast Friday, bringing rain to the Pacific Northwest and snow to the Cascade Mountains. As it moves east, it’s expected to develop into a massive storm impacting the Central Plains, Midwest, and Mid-Atlantic.

Heavy Snow to Blanket Central Plains

By Saturday evening, areas from central Kansas to Indiana, especially along and north of Interstate 70, could see widespread snowfall of at least 8 inches. Meteorologists predict this could be the heaviest snowfall in more than a decade for some regions. As the storm moves into the Ohio Valley and Mid-Atlantic on Sunday and Monday, severe travel disruptions are likely.

Blizzard Conditions and Whiteouts Expected

Wind gusts over 35 mph combined with heavy snowfall are predicted to create blizzard conditions, particularly in Kansas and the Central Plains. Whiteout conditions may make driving nearly impossible and significantly increase the risk of becoming stranded.

Freezing Rain to Create Hazardous Conditions

From eastern Kansas to the Ozarks, freezing rain is expected to begin Saturday, impacting Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, and West Virginia. With ice accumulations exceeding a quarter-inch, power outages and treacherous travel conditions are highly likely. “It’s going to be a mess, a potential disaster,” warned meteorologist Ryan Maue.

Arctic Air to Bring Bone-Chilling Cold Nationwide

Starting Monday, a polar vortex will drive temperatures 12 to 25 degrees Fahrenheit below normal across the eastern two-thirds of the U.S. The Ohio Valley is expected to bear the brunt of the cold, with subfreezing temperatures stretching as far south as the Gulf Coast and Florida. Hard freezes are anticipated in Florida, with brutal wind chills affecting millions.

“This could lead to the coldest January for the U.S. since 2011,” said AccuWeather’s Dan DePodwin.

Climate Change and Arctic Warming Play a Role

Scientists suggest the brutal cold may be linked to a rapidly warming Arctic, which can disrupt the polar vortex. “Just because the globe is warming doesn’t mean these cold snaps are going away,” said Jennifer Francis, a climate scientist. Judah Cohen, a seasonal forecast expert, has noted an increase in polar vortex disruptions, linking them to changes in the Arctic warming four times faster than the global average.

As the storm intensifies, officials urge residents to prepare for hazardous conditions, power outages, and significant travel disruptions.