A significant winter storm is set to impact over 20 states this week, bringing heavy snow, ice, and dangerously cold temperatures to millions of Americans. AccuWeather experts warn of major travel disruptions, including over 5,000 anticipated flight cancellations, hazardous road conditions, and power outages across the South and mid-Atlantic.
Snowfall: Northern Texas, southeastern Oklahoma, northern Arkansas, and western Tennessee are expected to see 3-6 inches of snow, with localized totals of up to 14 inches.
Ice: Hazardous ice accumulations are forecast from central Texas to the Carolinas, creating treacherous travel conditions.
Flight Cancellations: An estimated 1,900 flights are expected to be canceled on Thursday, 2,100 on Friday, and 1,250 on Saturday.
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The storm will begin impacting regions on Wednesday, with temperatures dropping into the 30s across New Mexico and Texas, paving the way for snow and ice. The heaviest snow will fall from Wednesday night into Friday, particularly in north-central Texas and southeastern Oklahoma, where totals could exceed 12 inches.
“This storm will create a significant travel mess,” said AccuWeather Chief Meteorologist Jon Porter. “Suburbs north of Dallas could see more than 6 inches of snow, and icy conditions will make travel hazardous, particularly for those heading to the Cotton Bowl in Arlington.”
In the South, cities like Little Rock, Memphis, and Nashville, which typically experience minimal snow, could see more snow from this storm than their average winter totals. Atlanta is also expected to receive a mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain, leading to widespread disruptions.
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A narrow band of ice accumulation is predicted along the southern edge of the heaviest snowfall, impacting northeastern Texas, southwestern Arkansas, northern Louisiana, and parts of Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina. Even minor ice accumulations can result in road hazards, tree damage, and power outages.
“Birmingham to Atlanta and the Carolinas are all at risk of icy conditions,” said AccuWeather Chief On-Air Meteorologist Bernie Rayno.
Major Southern airport hubs, including Dallas Fort Worth International Airport and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, are expected to face delays due to icy runways and deicing operations.
The storm will move eastward by Friday, bringing snow to the mid-Atlantic and Northeast. While major snowfall is expected to remain south of cities like New York, Philadelphia, and Boston, areas such as Washington, D.C., and Baltimore could see a second round of snow.
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Behind the storm, Arctic air will surge into the Midwest and Ohio Valley, leading to the coldest temperatures of the season. Subfreezing conditions are expected to extend into the Gulf Coast and Florida Peninsula.
“Some families are still without power from the first storm, and this round of snow and ice will only add to the challenges,” said AccuWeather Meteorologist Alex DaSilva.
The widespread cold will strain energy systems, with some regions experiencing consecutive days and nights below freezing. Gusty winds will further lower AccuWeather RealFeel® Temperatures, making conditions feel even colder.
Residents in affected areas are urged to prepare for dangerous travel, power outages, and extended periods of freezing weather.
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