Severe Winter Storm Hits the United States

News Summary

A severe winter storm is currently sweeping across the United States, affecting more than 70 million people with record low temperatures and significant snowfall. Over 75% of the country is gearing up for frigid conditions, with states from Tennessee to Maine under winter weather warnings. Travel disruptions are widespread, with thousands of flight cancellations and dangerous road conditions anticipated. Southern states, including Louisiana and Texas, are also declaring states of emergency as a rare winter storm brings snow and ice. Residents are advised to stay safe and plan accordingly.

Severe Winter Storm Hits the United States

If you thought last week’s weather was tough, brace yourself! A severe winter storm is sweeping across the United States this week, bringing with it record freezing temperatures and layers of snow. This Arctic chill, courtesy of our friends up north in Canada, is expected to impact over **70 million people** nationwide.

Freezing Temperatures Take Over

It seems that **more than 75% of the U.S.** is gearing up for a cold wave this week. Cities from **Tennessee to Maine** are under winter weather advisories and storm warnings, with many folks bracing for plunging temperatures that might have you bundling up like never before!

Snowfall Predictions

The Northeast is particularly in the crosshairs of this storm, especially areas along the **I-95 corridor**. From Sunday into early Monday, places like **Washington, DC,** might see **1 to 3 inches** of snow, while New York and Boston are preparing for **up to 6 inches**. Over in **Connecticut**, Hartford is expecting **5 to 7 inches**, and **Portland, Maine,** could be buried under **up to 8 inches** of fluffy white snow.

Emergency Declarations and Travel Disruptions

In anticipation of the impending storm, **Philadelphia has declared a snow emergency**, with snowfall expected to hit **4-6 inches** and temperatures dropping below freezing on Sunday night. Meanwhile, **Washington, DC,** has activated a cold weather emergency due to “dangerously low” temperatures.

As this wild winter storm continues to unfold, it’s also impacting travel in a big way. Over **1,100 flights** were canceled as of Sunday evening, with an additional **5,017 flights** delayed across the country. Airports like **Newark Liberty International** and **LaGuardia** are seeing more than **20% of their flights canceled**. New Jersey’s Governor even advised residents to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary.

Southern States in the Cold

And it’s not just the northern states getting hit. A rare winter storm is brewing down south, prompting **Louisiana** to declare a state of emergency and **Texas** to activate state agencies. **Houston** is preparing for **up to 5 inches of snow** starting Monday night, accompanied by warnings of freezing rain that could lead to dangerously slick roads.

In a proactive measure, **Houston’s civilian airports will close** on Tuesday, and the **Houston Independent School District** has decided to keep schools closed until Wednesday. Local officials are treating critical roads and even opened warming shelters in **Austin** for anyone needing refuge from the ice-cold bites of winter.

Chilly Predictions Ahead

Winter weather alerts are affecting nearly **150 million people**, with forecasts suggesting temperatures could plunge **20 to 30 degrees below normal** in places like **Cleveland** and **Kansas City**. Wind chills are even more unsettling — think **minus 25 to 50 below zero** across the **Midwest and Northern Plains**. Bundle up, folks!

Watch Out for Black Ice!

Meanwhile, over **30 million people** are under watches and warnings for a significant storm expected to hit the **Gulf Coast and Southeast**. In parts of South and Central Texas, total snow and sleet could accumulate to around **2 inches**, making roads slick and hazardous. Travel could get tricky from Monday night through Tuesday morning, so be sure to plan ahead.

With all these chilly predictions, make sure to check your pipes and stay safe out there! When the snow starts falling, it’s a good time to stay in, sip some hot cocoa, and watch the winter wonderland unfold outside your window.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• San Antonio Express-News
• Wikipedia: Winter storm
• Houston Chronicle
• Google Search: winter storm Texas
• ABC 13 Houston
• Google Scholar: winter weather impact
• KXAN Austin
• Encyclopedia Britannica: winter weather
• KHOU 11 News
• Google News: winter storm alerts