‘Bone-chilling freeze’: Winter storm hits 63 million in US, emergencies declared in 2 states
A fierce winter storm hit the central U.S. on Sunday, bringing snow, ice, and freezing temperatures. The storm created treacherous travel conditions and could deliver the “heaviest snowfall in a decade” to some areas, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).
Snow and Ice Blankets the Midwest
Snow and ice covered major roads in Kansas, western Nebraska, and parts of Indiana, causing significant travel disruptions. By Sunday morning, the NWS issued winter storm warnings for Kansas, Missouri, and New Jersey. These regions faced blizzard conditions, with wind gusts up to 45 mph (72 km/h). Kansas and Missouri could see 8-14 inches of snow, with some areas experiencing snowfalls not seen in years.
“The highest snow totals could make this the heaviest snowfall in a decade,” the NWS warned. Nearly 63 million people across the U.S. were under some type of winter weather advisory.
State Emergencies Declared
In Indiana, the storm caused snow to cover roads, including Interstate 64, 69, and U.S. Route 41. Authorities urged drivers to stay off the roads as snowplows struggled to keep up. The situation was similar in Kentucky, where Louisville set a new record for snowfall, receiving 7.7 inches of snow. Parts of upstate New York also experienced lake-effect snow, with up to 3 feet falling in some areas.
By Sunday, several states, including Virginia, Kentucky, and Kansas, declared states of emergency. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear warned people to stay off the roads after numerous accidents and wrecks occurred.
Dangerous Travel and Widespread Disruptions
The storm wreaked havoc on road travel, with hundreds of accidents reported in Virginia, Indiana, Kansas, and Kentucky. In Missouri, at least 600 motorists were stranded. Highways in northeastern Kansas were closed due to “impassable” conditions, and sections of Interstate 70 in Kansas were shut down by snow. In addition, the weather caused delays in air and rail travel.
Amtrak canceled more than 20 trains, including services between Chicago and New York, while nearly 200 flights were grounded at St. Louis Lambert International Airport. Passengers were advised to check updates as disruptions spread to other airports.
Extreme Cold and Wind Chill
As the storm moved east, temperatures dropped sharply. By Sunday, the central U.S. faced bone-chilling cold, with temperatures plunging as much as 25°F (14°C) below normal. Cities like Chicago and Minneapolis saw temperatures in the teens, with wind chills making it feel even colder. The Eastern U.S., including parts of Florida, also braced for a freeze, with single-digit lows forecast for many areas.
In addition to snow and ice, the storm brought damaging winds, which downed trees across the Deep South. In Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi, tornado warnings were issued as part of the ongoing severe weather. The cold front extended to the East Coast, with states like Maryland and Virginia expected to experience freezing conditions.
School Closures and Cancellations
The storm also impacted schools, with several districts closing for the day. Kentucky’s Jefferson County Public Schools canceled classes, activities, and athletics for its nearly 100,000 students. Other districts in Virginia, Maryland, and Indiana followed suit, announcing closures for Monday.
Outlook for the Week
As the storm continued into Monday, authorities warned of further disruption. The NWS predicted 8-12 inches of snow for parts of Maryland, with freezing temperatures persisting throughout the weekend. Cold air from Canada would bring more chilly conditions to the East Coast, with wind chills adding to the danger.
The storm’s impact will be felt across the U.S. for the coming days, as it continues to disrupt travel, daily activities, and public services. The National Weather Service urged people to stay indoors, avoid unnecessary travel, and stay updated on changing weather conditions.
