A major winter storm is set to strike large portions of the United States this week, with impacts expected from the Southwest to the East Coast. According to the latest weather forecasts, the system will bring heavy snow, freezing rain, sleet, and extremely cold temperatures, potentially affecting hundreds of millions of people.

Which states will be affected?

The National Weather Service (NWS) and major media outlets have reported that the storm will impact a vast stretch of the country, with active alerts and warnings in dozens of states.

Regions and states under alert

Southwest and Plains: Texas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Kansas are expected to face ice accumulation, freezing rain, and the first significant snowfall of the season.

Mid-South and Deep South: States such as Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Tennessee will experience mixed winter precipitation bands, including dangerous ice conditions.

Southeast: Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina are under winter storm watches, and several of these states have declared a state of emergency to mobilize resources ahead of the system.

Northeast and Mid-Atlantic: Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, and New England are forecast to see heavy snowfall, with accumulations potentially exceeding 12 inches in several areas.

Northern regions and Midwest: Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Michigan, and parts of the northern Plains will face extreme cold and snow accumulation, significantly impacting roadways and essential services.

In total, more than two dozen states are under some form of winter weather alert, including warnings for snow, ice, and dangerously low temperatures.

How will this storm affect daily life?

This winter storm is not a minor event. Meteorological authorities have warned of:

• Widespread power outages due to ice accumulation on power lines and electrical infrastructure.
• Extremely hazardous travel conditions, with icy roads, reduced visibility, and a heightened risk of accidents.
• Flight cancellations and delays at major airports from Dallas to Boston as snowfall and ice intensify.
• Subfreezing temperatures and even lower wind chills, which may lead to hypothermia or frostbite if precautions are not taken.

Recommended preparedness measures

As this storm approaches, it is critical for both residents and travelers to take proactive steps to reduce risks and stay safe.

Recommended actions include securing adequate supplies of nonperishable food, drinking water, and essential medications to last several days.

It is also advised to install backup heating sources and ensure that home heating systems are functioning properly. Keeping flashlights, extra batteries, and mobile device chargers on hand is essential in case of power outages.

For vehicles, maintaining the fuel tank above half full is recommended to prevent fuel lines from freezing.

Travel should be avoided unless absolutely necessary, particularly during periods of peak storm impact.

Authorities also advise wearing multiple layers of warm clothing, including hats, gloves, and scarves, and limiting outdoor exposure during the coldest hours.