Severe Cold Weather and Winter Storms Affecting Over 95 Million Americans
A severe cold snap is expected to affect over 95 million Americans, with winter storms predicted for major East Coast cities. Significant snow and ice accumulation may occur, particularly in New York City, Boston, and Washington, D.C. The Gulf Coast is also likely to experience winter weather, presenting challenges for travel in regions not used to such conditions.
Over 95 million Americans are currently under alert for severe cold temperatures as arctic air moves south across the nation. A significant winter storm is anticipated to bring snow to multiple major cities along the Eastern Seaboard this weekend, prompting winter storm watches and warnings from the mid-Atlantic to the Northeast. New York City is forecasting 4 to 6 inches of snow, marking its largest snowstorm in almost three years.
Boston is expected to experience a rain-snow mix evolving into all snow on Sunday evening, with similar snowfall amounts as New York. In Washington, D.C., residents might see 2 to 4 inches of wet snow, which could harden into ice overnight. Philadelphia may also witness 3 to 4 inches of slushy snow, with slick roads anticipated along the Interstate 95 corridor.
Additionally, extreme cold warnings are in place for North Dakota, northern Minnesota, and northwestern Wisconsin, with wind chills dropping to -50 degrees, presenting serious risks of frostbite within five minutes of exposure. Cities like Minneapolis, Chicago, New York City, and even Houston will experience unseasonably low temperatures over the coming days.
A new winter weather event is set to affect the Gulf Coast from Texas through Florida on Monday night into Tuesday. This system may bring both snow and ice, with travel disruptions expected throughout Tuesday and Wednesday. Areas in central and southern Louisiana, southeastern Texas, and southern Mississippi could receive over 4 inches of snow, particularly north of Interstate 10.
Houston, which last saw significant snowfall in 2021, may receive measurable snowfall, potentially causing travel issues. Meanwhile, New Orleans, which has not recorded measurable snow since 2009, could also see winter precipitation for the first time in years. Forecasts indicate that residents should prepare for the cold snap over the weekend.
The United States is bracing for a substantial drop in temperatures as arctic air sweeps southward, impacting over 95 million people. A winter storm is expected to bring snow and ice to major cities on the East Coast, creating hazardous travel conditions. Many regions, especially along the Gulf Coast, are forecasted to experience winter weather, which is uncommon for them, necessitating preparations as temperatures plummet.
In conclusion, over 95 million Americans face extreme cold temperatures and winter storms in the coming days. Major cities along the East Coast and the Gulf Coast should prepare for snowfall and potential travel disruptions. The cold snap poses serious risks, especially in areas unaccustomed to such weather, underscoring the importance of preparedness in anticipation of the winter conditions.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
