A powerful winter storm system has prompted the National Weather Service (NWS) to issue widespread winter storm warnings across multiple US states, with up to three feet of snow and strong winds expected to impact large areas from Thursday into Friday and potentially through the weekend.
Forecasters warned that the combination of heavy snowfall and gusty winds could create dangerous travel conditions and potential disruptions to daily life, Newsweek reported.
Eight US states on high alert
According to the Newsweek report, the NWS winter storm warnings cover eight states where severe winter weather is anticipated. These include New York, Oklahoma, Texas, and Michigan, as well as regions of Maryland and Virginia, and parts of Colorado and Utah. Residents and travellers in these states are being urged to take precautions and prepare for significant snowfall, icy conditions, and potential hazards on the roads.
In New York, forecasters have highlighted particularly heavy snowfall in the eastern Lake Ontario region, where snow accumulations could reach up to three feet combined with winds up to 40 mph. This could result in blowing snow and near‑whiteout conditions, especially in counties like Jefferson, Cattaraugus, and St. Lawrence, making travel treacherous in many places.
Parts of Oklahoma and Texas, including areas in the Panhandle region, are also expected to receive between 4 and 9 inches of snow, with strong winds and subfreezing temperatures creating hazardous driving and outdoor conditions.
‘Stay off the roads’
Officials have advised people in these regions to stay off the roads if possible and to be ready for sudden changes in weather conditions.
In the Upper Midwest, Michigan is forecast to see 2 to 8 inches of snow in counties such as Alger and Luce, with wind gusts and blowing snow likely to affect both morning and evening commutes. These conditions could make roads slick and visibility poor, prompting additional warnings for motorists to remain cautious.
Beyond the core storm area, winter weather watches and advisories remain in place over broader regions, reinforcing the need for preparedness during this active winter pattern.
The NWS has highlighted that travel may be “extremely dangerous” in areas under warning, and residents are recommended to monitor local forecasts, maintain emergency kits, and plan ahead as the storm moves through the United States.