Arctic Blast to Bring Snow and Ice to 30 US States, Threatening 160 Million People

National Weather Service warns of life-threatening cold as winter storm spreads east

A powerful Arctic cold front is expected to sweep across the United States over the coming days, bringing snow and ice to nearly 30 states and affecting around 160 million people, forecasters have warned.

The National Weather Service (NWS) said the cold air will move east from the High Plains and Rockies from Friday, with temperatures plunging well below freezing in many areas.

Extreme wind chills and widespread disruption

The NWS has issued warnings that wind chills in the Northern Plains could fall below -50°F (-46°C), posing a serious risk of hypothermia and frostbite.

“These wind chills will pose life-threatening risk of hypothermia and frostbite to exposed skin,” the agency said.

Meanwhile, a separate weather system is already producing snow showers downwind of the Great Lakes, adding to the disruption.

Snow to hit major cities

The storm is expected to develop over Texas and New Mexico before moving eastward. It could bring significant snowfall to major urban centres, including:

• Memphis
• Nashville
• Washington DC
• Baltimore
• Philadelphia
• New York

While exact totals are still uncertain, some areas could see more than 12 inches (30cm) of snow, meteorologists said.

Freezing rain and power outages possible in the south

States further south may experience freezing rain, which could coat trees and power lines with ice, increasing the risk of power outages and road closures.

Officials have warned that roads may become impassable, especially in southern regions where de-icing resources are limited.

States of emergency declared

Several governors, including those of Texas, North Carolina and South Carolina, have declared states of emergency to mobilise emergency services and National Guard support.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott said the state was preparing resources ahead of the storm.

The warnings come amid memories of the 2021 Texas winter storm, when extreme cold caused widespread power failures.

Cold to continue into next week

Authorities say the cold temperatures are expected to linger into next week, prolonging the threat of freezing conditions and infrastructure damage.