A powerful winter storm is currently sweeping across the central and eastern United States, bringing a dangerous mix of snow, ice, and heavy rain to millions of people. Over 60 million individuals are under winter weather alerts, with hazardous travel conditions, power outages, and school and business closures expected. As of Sunday, January 5, the storm’s effects are already being felt in the Central Plains and are projected to move eastward, reaching cities like Washington, D.C. and Philadelphia by Monday, reads a CNN report.
The storm is delivering snow, freezing rain, and ice, with winds gusting up to 50 mph. In some areas, snowfall totals could exceed a foot, while ice accumulations may reach three-quarters of an inch. Blizzard warnings have been issued for eastern Kansas and western Missouri, where travel is nearly impossible. Significant icing is also expected, particularly in areas from Kansas and Missouri to the central Appalachians, making bridges and overpasses dangerously slick. The National Weather Service has urged residents to avoid travel in affected regions, as snowplows and emergency vehicles struggle to clear roads.
In cities like Kansas City and St. Louis, snow accumulations of 5 to 14 inches are expected, while Washington, D.C. could receive up to 10 inches. Power outages are already affecting over 113,000 people in the central U.S., with more outages likely as the storm continues. Cold temperatures following the storm will make power restoration more challenging.
Air travel has been severely disrupted, with more than 1,500 flights canceled. Ground transportation is also hindered, as crashes and blocked roads leave many travelers stranded. Governors of several states have declared states of emergency, and schools and government offices are closed in many areas. The storm is expected to last through Monday, with temperatures plummeting up to 30 degrees below normal.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
