Upcoming Winter Storms Threaten Severe Weather Across the U.S.
Winter weather is ramping up across the U.S. with three major storms expected to affect many regions. The first storm will produce snow and ice in the East, while heavy rain will impact California. States like Kansas and Virginia have declared emergencies in preparation for severe weather.
Winter weather is intensifying across the U.S., with several storms causing widespread impacts. Back-to-back winter systems have already affected northern and eastern states, with more heavy rain hitting California. Three significant storms are anticipated this week, with the first two occurring so close together they will feel like a single event.
Storm One: Tuesday and Wednesday. Beginning in the Plains on Monday night, this storm will move quickly to the East Coast by Tuesday. It will track further south than previous storms, impacting areas previously spared from winter weather. Heavy snow and ice will affect the Appalachians, mid-Atlantic, and southern Northeast, with dangerous ice accumulations predicted.
The National Weather Service warns that ice accumulation could lead to power outages and treacherous travel conditions in affected regions, particularly West Virginia and parts of Virginia and North Carolina. Snowfall predictions include up to 6 inches in Washington, DC, which would be a notable increase in seasonal totals. Additionally, heavy rains in the southern states pose a flood risk.
In anticipation of these conditions, Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly declared a state of disaster, urging residents to prepare emergency kits. Virginia’s governor declared a state of emergency as well, emphasizing the need for residents to stay off the roads as schools close and disruptions are expected.
Storm Two: Wednesday and Thursday. The second storm will form in the central U.S. while the first still impacts the East. Snow, ice, and rain will envelop the Midwest and Northeast by Wednesday evening, with snowfall totals potentially reaching double digits in cities like Kansas City and Chicago. Dangerous ice conditions may develop where snow accumulates.
Storm Three: Thursday. The final storm will initially impact California, arriving fully formed and bringing significant rainfall and flooding risks, especially in areas recently affected by wildfires. The National Weather Service warns of life-threatening debris flows in and around burn scars. Heavy precipitation is expected throughout California, including strong snowfall in mountain regions.
As the storm moves eastward on Thursday night, it will gain strength and produce heavy snow in the Midwest and Northeast by Saturday, with potential severe thunderstorms in Southern states. The storm is expected to affect the East Coast into the following week, as another storm system may approach soon after.
In summary, a series of powerful storms are poised to impact various regions of the U.S., with significant risks including snow, ice, flooding, and power outages. Residents in affected areas are urged to remain vigilant and prepared for harsh conditions, with state officials declaring emergencies and schools closing in anticipation of severe weather. Continued monitoring is essential as the storms progress toward the East Coast and future systems develop.
Original Source: www.kten.com
