Huge winter storm warning brings snowfall, heavy winds, and ice to 8 states, disrupting travel in a big way

The National Weather Service has issued a new winter storm warning, which is expected to bring several inches of snowfall and heavy winds to several states. This time, we’re expecting a combination of factors to wreak havoc across the Midwest and into the southern U.S., with low-pressure systems and frontal systems meeting Arctic airflow to disrupt our week.

Specifically, the Appalachians are experiencing a low-pressure wave that is combining with Gulfstreams to introduce showers across the southern states. A cold front is approaching that weather pattern, pushing it toward the Gulf Coast and adding some thunderstorms to the mix. Finally, snowfall is expected in the Midwest. At the same time, much of the western United States continues to experience an odd winter drought.

What the NHS says

“A low pressure wave tracking east toward the southern Appalachians early this morning has drawn moisture and instability from the warm waters of the Gulf to support widespread showers across the South and some organized thunderstorms near the Gulf coast. The cold front trailing southwest from the low pressure center will steadily advance these showers and embedded thunderstorms from west to east across the Gulf Coast this morning, and then across much of the Southeast today into tonight.

“Meanwhile, a replenishment of arctic air spreading into the Great Lakes and the Northeast is supporting a period of light snow across the Mid-Atlantic early this morning. The snow should taper off by daybreak but another patch of light snow and wintry mix is expected to move across North Carolina from west to east later today through tonight as the low pressure wave will take some time to move through the region.By Thursday, the low pressure wave is forecast to move off the southeastern U.S. and intensify rapidly. Showers and embedded thunderstorms ahead of the trailing cold front will be moving through Florida Peninsula on Thursday.

“By Friday morning, the cold air will make it all the way down the Sunshine State where 30s to 40s will be common, with below freezing temperatures returning to the Florida Panhandle. Meanwhile, much of the western U.S. will remain dry with milder than normal conditions under the influence of a persistent upper-level ridge. Ahead of a warm front, light snow will be moving into the Great Lakes on Thursday, with the arrival of snow showers and possibly snow squalls over the upper Great Lakes by early on Friday, signaling the arrival of the next intense surge from arctic air from Canada.”

Which states are affected

Michigan: Expect intense lake-effect snow in western and northern snowbelts, including Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, and Muskegon. Dangerous snow squalls can cause immediate whiteout conditions and have already contributed to large multi-vehicle pileups on major interstates.

Minnesota, North Dakota, and Wisconsin: Expect significant wintry weather, with intense bursts of snow and gusty winds up to 40 mph. Post-frontal winds will likely cause blowing and drifting snow.

Indiana and Illinois: Lake-effect snow and sharp temperature declines should be expected. Northern Indiana may see significant accumulation from cold winds drifting across Lake Michigan.

Florida: A monumental cold event is expected, with temperatures dropping into the 20s in the Panhandle and 30s in South Florida. Record-low temperatures are forecast for Miami, Daytona Beach, and Vero Beach, with rare snow flurries expected as far south as Tampa.

North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia: These states are in the path of a coastal storm that may bring 8 to 12 inches of snow along the coastline and up to 8 inches inland. In North Carolina, residents should expect coastal flooding of 2 to 4 feet, wind gusts up to 60 mph on the coast, and “dicey” road conditions that may remain treacherous for several days.

Georgia: The Atlanta metro area is under a Winter Storm Watch, with up to 2 inches of snow expected and hazardous driving conditions, particularly on bridges and overpasses.

How this weather alert may affect travel conditions

Generally speaking, drivers if affected states should brace for snowfall and icy road conditions. Carry appropriate tire coverings (chains or snow socks) and be prepared to put them on as needed. Inclimatic weather could escalate quickly; if you’re out and about when things go south, you’ll be happier to have that clunky box of chains rattling around in the trunk than you will be leaving them in your garage at home.

Heavy winds may bring down power lines and trees, so be prepared for sudden road closures and increased traffic. Further, winds in some states, combined with snowy conditions, may limit your visibility. If that happens, drive slowly and pull over if necessary. In low-visibility driving, turn hazard lights on whether you are driving or parked on the side of the road to alert those behind you to your location.